ISI - SOC 102 - Social Problems
Course Description
Social Problems helps students to develop a sociological frame of refrence for understanding some of the complex problems of our society. Problems examined include poverty, environmental degradation, racism, sexism, crime, substance abuse, inadequate healthcare, etc. in the context of American society.
This course is designed to help students become critical consumers of information concerning the causes, consequences, and solutions related to current social problems.
Learner Outcomes
Course-specific Learning Outcomes
This course aims to help you gain knowledge and develop skills that will aid you in becoming a critical thinker, a successful student, and an informed, engaged member of society. More specifically, in this course you will do the following, which are linked to the above General Education learning outcomes:
- learn how to interpret your and others’ behaviors and experiences using a sociological framework
- gain an understanding of the structural roots of social problems
- gain an understanding of the ways social class, race, gender, and nationality affect people’s life chances and the types of problems and challenges they face
- discuss social issues in an informed, critical, and civil manner and, in the process, gain experience speaking to an audience of your peers
- write evidence-based essays in which you analyze specific social problems and apply sociological theories, concepts, and insights appropriately
It is expected that students will become more adept at utilizing social scientific analysis to analyze social problems in a critical manner. The written work and verbal presentations of students should reflect systematic, logical arguments clearly supported by theory and research. Students will have opportunities to practice effectively communicating their social science analysis.
Required Course Materials
Understanding Social Problems, 12th Edition, 2026. Authors: Mooney, Clever, Hipes, Publisher: Cengage, ISBN: 979-8-214-14762-8
Once enrolled see Syllabus to confirm requirements.
Expected Course Timeline
Most ISI courses are designed so that students can complete them within 3 months to 1 year. If you are attempting to complete a course more quickly than this, please contact ISI to explore your options.
Sponsor Institution
Credits earned for this course are included in a LC State transcript.
This is an INDEPENDENT STUDY IN IDAHO course
To learn about program and refund policies, visit www.uidaho.edu/isi.
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