As a student, did you ever wonder why we do so much group work in sociology classes? This isn’t a superficial way to discuss readings – you’re learning valuable skills that will serve you well in an applied career.
When you practice sociology you defend your ideas using evidence drawn from years of reading. You will rarely be able to have the evidence in front of you. Instead, you’ll draw on theories, concepts and empirical literature that you learned throughout your education.
You’ll have to describe sociological ideas in simple terms and you’ll have to convince clients about your recommendations without resorting to jargon or emotional appeals.
You’ll also lead research studies in the field, using focus group interviewing and surveys. You’ll do community consultations, where you will facilitate discussion with ordinary members of the public, policy managers, police, educators, social workers, business owners and other stakeholders. All of these activities are informed by the literature you’ve read throughout the years.
One of the most important skills a sociology degree provides is to draw on critical thinking and to use persuasive interpersonal communication.
Photo by Tedeytan via Flickr. #sociology
[Image description: students in a sociology class]