Welcome to My Sociological Activation!            Featured Activity:

On this site you will find a wide range of sociology resources that promote experiential learning both inside and outside of the classroom.  The collection of activities and assignments on this site have been drawn from sociology professors across the country. It will continue to expand with your submissions. The resources on this site are designed to help you effectively teach the sometimes-complex sociological concepts to your class
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In my social theory course, we just read "Of Morality & Society" by Emile Durkheim. Colin Kaepernick, the 49ers quarterback, has received a lot of attention for his decision to kneel during the national anthem at the beginning of the past few NFL games. I use this event as an opportunity to conduct an analysis from a Durkheimian perspective. I ask the students:
 - Why are his actions treated as “criminal” by some? 
 - What is the “collective representation” he challenged? 
 - Why is the flag / national anthem sacred? What does it represent? What was Kaepernick’s message about its representation? 
​ - What else is sacred in American culture? Is football sacred?
 - What produces the “Group Mind” mentality at football games? 
 - How does Kaepernick’s actions push us towards a higher ideal, towards “new gods”?

Who/What is the Sociological Activation?

My name is Michelle Smirnova and I am an Assistant Professor at the University of Missouri - Kansas City.  Throughout my years of teaching, I often spent hours scouring the internet for activities or assignments that would engage and excite my students. I recognizing that many others were in the same boat, I decided to create such a centralized (and free!) source for professors and instructors alike to brainstorm and share different activities they use in their Sociology courses.   Unlike more official venues, these submissions can be formal or informal descriptions, hopefully inspiring creativity and collaboration. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at MySociologicalActivation AT gmail DOT com