Social Problems in Global Context

This course examines causes of and responses to critical social problems in different world regions with a focus on the dimensions and impacts of globalization. This course is designed to introduce you to the basic concepts that sociologists use to analyze various aspects of social life, while also discussing current global social issues. The goal is not to have you accumulate “facts” about societies, but rather to give you the tools that you need to think critically about important current social issues. Topics in this course will include: global inequalities, conflict and violence; population dynamics and issues of sustainability.
Required Text: Sernau, Scott (2012) “Global Problems: the Search for Equity, Peace, and Sustainability.” Revised 3^rd Addition, Pearson Education ISBN 0205841775
Exploring social problems on a global scale This text uses social science perspectives to examine the various dimensions of globalization, the social problems of inequality, war and violence, and environmental sustainability that are occurring on a global scale. Clear writing and vivid examples help students to better understand their role as global citizens. The book was designed for courses such as Global Issues, Contemporary Problems, Social Problems, Social Stratification, World Cultures, and Social Change. Learning Goals Upon completing this book, readers should be able to: Understand social problems on a global scale – from inequalities to sustainability See the interconnections of the world and people throughout the world Learn about issues with a multinational and multidisciplinary approach, so readers will be able to have a broader understanding of the subject

• E-Text  (180 day subscription)
• UNCG bookstore
• Half.com ranging from $3.60 to $26.08

EVALUATION

There are 1000 pts available. Grades will be calculated as the sum of the following assignments:

1. Chapter Outlines 10% (100 pts)
2. Online Quizzes 50% (500 pts)
3. Current Events Blogs 10% (100 pts)
4. Online Current Events Presentations 10% (100 pts)
5. Online discussions 100% (100 pts)
6. Attendance 10% (100 pts)
7. Extra Credit +5% (+50 pts)

FINAL GRADES are distributed according to the following percentages:

• (A+)       97.5% – 100%
• (A)          92.5% – 97.4%
• (A-)        89.5% – 92.4%
• (B+)        87.5% – 89.4%
• (B)          82.5% – 87.4%
• (B-)        79.5% – 82.4%
• (C+)        77.5% – 79.4%
• (C)          72.5% – 77.4%
• (C-)        69.5% – 72.4%
• (D+)       67.5% – 69.4%
• (D)          62.5% – 67.4%
• (D-)        59.5% – 62.4%
• (F)          59.4% and below