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Article
Exploring the Benefits of Community-based Research in a Sociology of Sexualities Course
Teaching Sociology
  • Rebecca Bach
  • Julianne Weinzimmer, Wright State University - Main Campus
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2011
Abstract

The benefits of community-based research (CBR) in the sociology classroom go beyond those associated with traditional service learning. Here, students use their sociological skills to examine and propose solutions to local social problems addressed by community organizations. Through analyzing students’ course reflection journals and the results of pre- and posttests, the authors demonstrate how CBR can help students gain a better command of the research process and enhance student attitudes toward community service. After participating in CBR, the authors find that students indicate greater proficiency in undertaking the entire research process, from creating and implementing a research plan to making data-derived client recommendations. In addition, by showing how CBR can be incorporated into a less obviously applicable course, such as Sociology of Sexualities, the authors hope to encourage its further expansion in sociology.

DOI
10.1177/0092055X10390647
Citation Information
Rebecca Bach and Julianne Weinzimmer. "Exploring the Benefits of Community-based Research in a Sociology of Sexualities Course" Teaching Sociology Vol. 39 Iss. 1 (2011) p. 57 - 72 ISSN: 0092-055X
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/julianne-weinzimmer/5/