Graduate students who complete the Sociology MA program will be competent in the areas of sociological theory, research methods, and statistics.
Objective
Assess Sociological Competency: Entry Level
The level of sociological competency in the areas of sociological theory, research methods, and statistics will be assessed for all students upon admission to the Graduate Program.
KPI
Sociological Competency In Theory, Methods, And Statistics: Entry Level
All newly admitted students will be evaluated on their comprehension of sociological theory, research methods, and statistics by the Director of Graduate Studies and other committee members appointed by the Chair. The evaluations will be assigned a score from 1 to 5, where 1 is inadequate knowledge and 5 is excellent knowledge of the respective area (theory, methods, and statistics). The evaluations were developed by the Graduate Committee and approved by the entire faculty. At least 80% of newly admitted graduate students will score 3.5 or better on the 5-point scale in at least one area (theory, methods, or statistics).
Result
Sociological Competency: Findings
65% (17 of 26) of newly admitted graduate students in AY2013 scored 3.5 or better on the 5-point scale in at least one area (theory, methods, or statistics). Overall, students were evaluated as being the most competent in methods (69%). Students were evaluated as being least competent in sociological theory (35%).
Action
Sociological Competency In Theory, Methods, And Statistics: Entry Level Actions
Students with deficiencies in one or more areas (i.e., scores less than 3.5) will be encouraged to enroll in undergraduate level classes to bolster their familiarity of the particular subject of the deficiency (theory, methods, or statistics).
Objective
Application Of Core Sociological Areas And Concepts
Graduate students in Sociology will be able to use a sociological perspective, demonstrate knowledge of sociological theory, research methods, and statistics, and apply appropriate sociological concepts to the topic of study.
Indicator
Application Of Core Sociological Areas And Concepts In Sociological Paper
A sample of written material produced by MA students in one or more the Applied Core classes will be selected for in-depth analysis by the Graduate Committee. The papers are evaluated by the Graduate Committee made up of the Director of Graduate Studies and other committee members appointed by the Chair. The papers are evaluated on a 5-point scale on the use of a sociological perspective, demonstration of knowledge of sociological theory, and the application of appropriate sociological methods to the topic of study. This assessment was developed by the Graduate Committee and approved by the entire faculty.
Criterion
Application Of Core Sociological Areas And Concepts In A Sociological Paper: Desired Results
At least 80% of randomly selected papers from the core classes will be rated 3.5 or higher on the 5-point scale.
Finding
Soiological Paper: Findings
83% of students (10 of 12) performed satisfactorily. Overall, students scored higher on the "use of a sociological perspective" and "application of appropriate sociological methods" indicators. They scored lower on the "demonstration of knowledge of sociological theory" indicator.
Action
Sociological Paper: Actions
The data indicate that the desired result was exceeded. Those who did not perform satisfactorily did not meet the minimum evaluative criteria regarding application of core sociological areas and concepts. The department will make improvements in curricula and teaching to reduce the percentage of students who do not meet the minimum criteria and work for stronger outcomes in the area of knowledge of sociological theory.
Objective
Demonstrate Sociological Competency: Exit Level
Students who complete the MA program in Sociology will be able to apply and communicate the core concepts of the discipline as demonstrated in a professional research paper.
Indicator
Demonstrate Sociological Competency: Professional Paper
All MA sociology students are required to write a professional paper. The professional paper is a culminating experience for graduate students. As a capstone to the academic program, this scholarly paper demonstrates the student’s ability to evaluate, collect, organize, and communicate data consistent with criteria posed for scholarly presentations and publications. The requirement for a professional paper provides:
A mechanism for reinforcing skills learned within the research methods course.
A vehicle for determining whether or not the professional skill of written abilities is evidenced by the candidates.
Opportunities for the student to publish and make a contribution to the profession.
All Graduate Faculty in the department are called upon to review drafts of professional papers submitted by the graduate students. Each paper is reviewed for its adequacy of sociological theory and the appropriateness of methods and data. In-depth written feedback is then provided to each student and Director of Graduate Studies and a revision plan and timeline is prepared by the Director of Graduate Studies. Students are then supervised by a member of the Graduate Faculty as the professional paper is developed and completed. Before successful completion, the paper needs to be reviewed and collectively approved by Graduate faculty, the Director of Graduate Studies and the Department Chair.
Criterion
Professional Paper: Desired Results
At least 90% of randomly selected Professional Papers will be rated 3.5 or higher on the 5-point scale after feedback is given to the student.
Finding
Professional Paper: Findings
During AY2013, thirteen students graduated with a MA in Sociology. Sixteen students submitted professional papers for final consideration. Ten papers demonstrated adequate sociological competency; six were returned for additional revisions. Of the six returned, three (50%) successfully revised their paper to demonstrate adequate sociological competency. Overall, 13 of 16 papers (81.3%) adequately demonstrated sociological competency (scoring a 3.5 or higher on the 5-point scale).
Action
Professional Paper: Actions
In 2013-2014, students will be required to submit a proposal outlining the content of their professional paper. The proposal must be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies before students can enroll in SOCI 6098 Professional Paper Practicum.