Course title
400244001
Sociology

TAKAHASHI Setsuko
Middle-level Diploma Policy (mDP)
Program / Major mDP Goals
Department of Design Engineering A 幅広い教養を身につけ、多様性を理解し、世界的な視点から多面的に物事を考えることができる。
Purpose of class
This course introduces students to sociology by examining its basic theories and research methods. Students will develop the ability to analyze and interpret a variety of social phenomena in order to deepen their understanding of society. The course also explores the relationship between individuals and society, focusing on how people grow up within social contexts, become members of society, and are influenced by social structures and processes. Through these studies, students will gain a fundamental understanding of sociological perspectives and the nature of society.
Course description
Sociology is a social science that examines human society through the scientific analysis of social phenomena. Studying sociology helps us understand how societies are formed and how individuals are shaped by the social environments in which they grow up and live.
This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives of sociology. The first half of the course focuses on familiar social institutions and issues such as education, family, and gender. The second half examines phenomena characteristic of contemporary society, including poverty, urbanism, and media, with particular attention to contemporary Japanese society. Through these topics and related sociological theories, students will develop a deeper understanding of sociology and of contemporary society.
Goals and objectives
  1. By the end of this course, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of sociology as an academic discipline.
  2. Students will be able to analyze a range of social phenomena from a sociological perspective.
  3. Students will be able to explain the relationship between individuals and society.
Relationship between 'Goals and Objectives' and 'Course Outcomes'

Weekly quizzes and reaction papers Final exam Total.
1. 15% 20% 35%
2. 15% 20% 35%
3. 10% 20% 30%
Total. 40% 60% -
Evaluation method and criteria
Grades will be based on weekly quizzes and reaction papers (40%) and a final examination (60%). A total score of 60% or higher is required to pass the course.
The weekly quizzes and reaction papers will ask students to respond to questions related to the content of each class and to summarize their own thoughts and reflections on the topics discussed.
Students who complete the weekly quizzes and reaction papers and demonstrate an ability to explain basic sociological theories and concepts on the final examination will receive a passing grade of 60% or higher.
Language
Japanese
Class schedule

Class schedule HW assignments (Including preparation and review of the class.) Amount of Time Required
1. Introduction: What Is Sociology? Review the syllabus in advance. 60minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 60minutes
2. Sociological Theories, Research Methods / Socialization Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
3. Education and Schooling Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
4. Social Stratification Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
5. The Diversification of the Life Course and Family Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
6. Gender (1): Gender and the Sex Binary Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
7. Gender (2): Gender and Sexual Diversity Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
8. Social Inequality and Poverty Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
9. Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion, and Poverty Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
10. Systems of Social Support: Welfare and Care Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
11. Cities and Urban Studies Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
12. Urban Development and Environmental Conservation Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
13. Media and the Diversification of Communication Read the relevant sections of the textbook before class. 100minutes
Review the distributed handouts, textbook, and reference materials after class. 100minutes
14. Conclusion: What Is Society? / Final Examination Prepare for the final examination. 200minutes
Total. - - 2720minutes
Feedback on exams, assignments, etc.
ways of feedback specific contents about "Other"
Feedback in the class
Textbooks and reference materials
Textbook
Matsumoto, Y., Koike, Y., & Sadakane, H. (Eds.). (2024). Shakaigaku no kiso [Basics of sociology]. Yuhikaku.
(松本康(監修),小池靖・貞包英之(編)(2024).『社会学の基礎』.有斐閣.)

Reference materials will be introduced in class.
Prerequisites
Please read the syllabus and check the course contents in advance.
Office hours and How to contact professors for questions
  • Questions are welcome through reaction papers, during class, or after class. Questions may also be submitted by email.
    Feedback on questions will be shared in the following class.
Regionally-oriented
Non-regionally-oriented course
Development of social and professional independence
  • Non-social and professional independence development course
  • Course that cultivates a basic interpersonal skills
  • Course that cultivates an ability for utilizing knowledge
  • Course that cultivates a basic self-management skills
Active-learning course
N/A
Course by professor with work experience
Work experience Work experience and relevance to the course content if applicable
N/A 該当しない。
Education related SDGs:the Sustainable Development Goals
  • 1.NO POVERTY
  • 3.GOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
  • 4.QUALITY EDUCATION
  • 5.GENDER EQUALITY
  • 11.SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES
  • 16.PEACE, JUSTICE AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS
Last modified : Wed Apr 29 11:21:53 JST 2026