Current Program

Sociology offers courses in American Social Problems and The Family as well as introductory classes. Students enroll in these classes to meet transfer requirements, to obtain a Liberal Arts degree or certificate, and for personal enrichment. In recent years, changes in student interests, the addition of weekend classes and economic conditions have affected the types of classes offered.

Degrees and Certificates - No degrees or certificates are offered.

Personnel - At this time, one full-time faculty member and two part-time faculty members are employed for the program.

Teaching Methodologies - Lecture and Large Lecture/Study Groups are the most frequently used teaching methods.

Technology - No classes are offered online at this time.

Equipment - Several computers are in need of repair, and computers should be replaced and/or added.

Facilities - The condition of classrooms is fair, although there is no air conditioning in the "F" Building.

Future Program

In future years, the program will need to adapt to changes in teaching methods, student academic preparation, and curriculum development. College recruitment strategies also will affect courses offered. In the mid term (five years) and in the long term (ten years) it is expected that enrollment in Sociology will increase at the same rate as the college's enrollment. See Program Projections.

Degrees and Certificates - Within five years, increasing enrollment and other factors may lead to offering an A. A. degree or certificate in Sociology or Human Services.

Personnel - See Projected Faculty and Staff Needs.

Teaching Methodologies - Changes in teaching methodologies are expected as technology changes: online/distance education, more guest lectures and increasing on-site visits are all expected to change the way instruction is delivered.

Technology - Alternative delivery systems, such as online courses and interactive video, could become a significant part of the program's offerings, as classes are easily adaptable to the new technology available.

Equipment - New VCRs and computers are needed.

Facilities - "F" Building classrooms need air conditioning.

Staff Development - Training in new teaching and instructional methodologies, including online distance education, is needed. In addition, staff development activities focusing on college procedures, discipline, grading, curriculum and course outline review would be useful.