Page 189 - HKSYU Prospectus 2023-24

Sociology

SOC 221 Social Research Methods
1 Term; 3 Credits
The course introduces students to the basic steps in conducting social research, including
problem formulation, problem conceptualization, measurement, sampling, data analysis, and
data interpretation. It also examines both principles and techniques of research designs
commonly used in sociology, such as survey research, field research, and experimental/quasi-
experimental designs.

SOC 221A Applied Quantitative Social Research Methods
1 Term; 3 Credits
The course focuses on the concepts, techniques and application of quantitative social
research methods, and will provide students with basic and advanced knowledge and skills of
quantitative social research methods necessary for their development as sociologists. It is also
designed to help prepare students to use quantitative research methods in their final year
project if they so wish. Students will be exposed to a variety of quantitative methodologies
including path analysis and multivariate regression models with latent variables. This course
adopts an experiential teaching and learning approach. Students will develop a critical
awareness of the application of quantitative social research through discussion and application
of topics including measurement, survey design, and computer-based data analysis.

SOC 221B Applied Qualitative Social Research Methods
1 Term; 3 Credits
This course introduces students to the essential qualitative research methods and skills
including unobtrusive measures, documentary analysis, content analysis, online research,
ethnographic investigation, in-depth interview, focus group interview, photovoice, and action
research. This course provides students with the basic epistemological theories, practical
strategies as well as computer skills to use the software NVivo 12 for conducting qualitative
research. Students are given opportunities to conduct qualitative research in real settings.

SOC 231 Social Problems
1 Term; 3 Credits
This course introduces students to the sociological approach to understanding social
problems. It consists of two components: theoretical perspectives and field work. The
theoretical component is a lecture presentation of a variety of sociological perspectives on
social problems, the purpose of which is to show that social problems are complex and multi-
causal in nature. For the field work component, students will gain first-hand experience of
certain aspects of social problems and apply one or more perspectives to the local context by
conducting field observation in the community.

SOC 257 Art and Society
1 Term; 3 Credits
This course aims to draw a general picture of the relationship between art and society. We

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