In this course, students learn to recognize various social science paradigms in the literature and identify their respective strengths and weaknesses; as well as to apply different theoretical perspectives to a variety of social phenomena and problems and use them to develop their own explanatory and interpretative approaches.

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to recognise various social science paradigms in the literature and identify their respective strengths and weaknesses; apply different theoretical perspectives to a wide range of social phenomena and issues, and use them to develop their own explanatory and interpretive approaches.

In this course, regular attendance is mandatory and a precondition to perform well. To pass the course students have to be present for at least 80 % of the scheduled contact hours. If students miss performance components, they have to provide a doctor's note or other valid excuse in order to qualify for compensatory assignments.

Learning activities consist in preparatory readings, teacher’s input,  quizzes and discussions in class, group presentations, and written group assignments (essays).

Performance components:

• Presentation in small groups – 20%
• Peer review of another group’s presentation – 10 %
• Individual contribution to class discussion (ongoing) – 20 %
• Essay I in small groups (mid-term) – 20 %
• Essay II in small groups (end of term) – 30 %

Grading scale:
≥ 60 % grade 4, ≥ 70 % grade 3, ≥ 80 % grade 2, ≥ 90 % grade 1

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