SYB 111
SOCIAL PROBLEMS
FALL 2004
PROJECT OVERVIEW
As noted in the syllabus for this course, the project for this course involves an intensive study of a current social problem. This requirement may be completed through one of the following methods:
1. Service Learning.
This involves two components: (a) a service learning activity where you spend 2-3 hours per week as a volunteer in the Hartford Public Schools with the University's Educational Main Street Program or at another approved service learning site (e.g., soup kitchen, labor union); and (b) the completion of a journal and other written work in which you reflect upon your volunteer experience and apply course concepts to analyze the social problem being addressed by your volunteer work. In order to complete this project successfully you need to (1) conscientiously keep your service/volunteer commitment (i.e., participate every week unless there are extreme circumstances) and (2) complete all written/journal assignments.
2. Research.
This project involves an in-depth study of a current social problem chosen
by the student. Data will be gathered via library research, the Internet,
and (optional) field research. Written presentation will involve three
3. Field Research--Social Problems.
This project option involves more active data gathering. The “on
campus option” will involve identification and study of a social problem
affecting college students in contemporary American society. Once a
problem has been identified, research will involve data gathering via field
research (interviews with students, staff, and administrators) supplemented by
library and Internet sources. The “off campus option” would
involve field research (observation and interviews with one or more
organizations working to address a social problem), supplemented by library and
Internet sources. Presentation of results will follow a format negotiated
with the instructor. With permission, research and presentation may be
undertaken as a group project.
GETTING STARTED
Your first task is to decide which of the above project options you wish to pursue. Which format best suits your learning style--and your educational goals? If you are considering the service learning option, you need to determine whether you can keep a commitment of 2-3 hours per week throughout the semester (this is particularly important for those with work, family, or organizational responsibilities).
Once you have made your decision you either need to (1) arrange for a service learning opportunity or (2) select and plan a topic for research. You will need to do this quickly: a completed “project information” form must be submitted by Tuesday, September 14.
For those selecting the service learning option:
You should immediately begin making arrangements for your volunteer work
(this often takes a little time). If you are interested in Educational
Main Street (EMS), then you will need to attend a “training”
session for tutors (a schedule and other information will be distributed in
class).
If you want to explore other service learning options, you are responsible for making all arrangements. The Center for Community Service (Gengras 209) may have information on organizations seeking student volunteers; they also often sponsor a “Volunteer Fair” early in the semester where you can meet with representatives from community organizations. Check out their web site at uhaweb.hartford.edu/ccs
You may also contact agencies on your own (I can provide you with some
suggestions). This requires an early start and some
persistence--non-profit organizations often have limited time and resources to
devote to returning telephone calls. In any event, it is essential that
your volunteer activity (1) last for the duration of the semester and (2)
address a significant social problem. Please see me if you have any
questions about this. One useful resource is the
Note: In order for your volunteer
project to be successful, you need to begin in a timely manner. Past experience has demonstrated that
students who miss the initial deadlines tend to do poorly on the project.
For those selecting the research option:
Begin by selecting a general problem, then think carefully about narrowing your topic. Begin developing a list of “core” questions; that is, what are the most important things that you want to discover about your topic? The more detail that you provide to me in your project description on September 14, the more I can assist you and help you avoid future problems. Please feel free to meet with me to discuss potential topics.
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