SOC488E Topics in Sociology: Gender Equality in the Workplace

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course examines the nature of contemporary workplaces and the extent to which equal opportunities are afforded for individuals regardless of their gendered identification or their sexual orientation. We study the politics of the corporate world, the dynamics of scientific careers, the changing nature of leadership in society and politics. Our aim is to understand the ways in which the absence of gender equality impacts a country’s economic prosperity, on its ability to formulate sustainable and scientifically sound strategies that cope with fragile environments, and on its potential to participate in democratic transitions.

The course covers issues of global and regional import, and focuses attention on the challenges faced in the professional cultures of the MENA region.

The course engages students in active learning using Problem-Based Learning, Debates, and Case Studies of real scenarios. Students are challenged to question their own practices and perspectives, and they will be expected to contribute to the active formulation of positive and forward-looking solutions.