Sociological Themes Research Articles

Pushing the Boundaries or Pulling the Norms: An Exploratory Study on the Cases of ‘Child Marriages’ in Turkiye

From the perspectives of the interviewees, this research studies the role of ‘traditions’ in child marriage as a social and cultural phenomenon in Turkey. This exploratory study focuses on the ‘narratives’ of a group of Turkish women who married in their childhood. These sorts of marriages are one of the hot topics of sociology and social policy as an interdisciplinary academic field. There has been a profound change concerning attitudes towards marriages over the last years: even for those from conservative families, there is no hesitation in saying that ‘culture’ and ‘norms’ radically shaped marriages in the past, resulting in a child or early marriage. As stated, the results suggest that marriage patterns have been changing radically. This shift from past to present concerning marriage patterns results from many parameters like technological progress, improvements in education, social media, urbanization, the usage of popular culture outlets such as TV programs, talk shows, documentaries, platforms like Netflix, Disney Plus, and so on. However, early marriage still occurs in particular regions of the country. The present study details the outcomes of qualitative research conducted in Turkey on respondents who married when they were children. It demonstrates that cultural factors played a certain role in these sorts of marriages. The snowball technique was applied to identify the interviewees, and thematic and content analysis were utilized to analyze the qualitative data. As a result of the research, four categories and ten themes correlated with child marriage were verified.

The task of sociologists is to bring order into chaos (interview with RAS corresponding member M. F. Chernysh)

On the eve of the 50th anniversary of the journal Sociological Studies, we turned to Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Doctor of Sociological Sciences Mikhail F. Chernysh – our long-time author and expert, member of the editorial board – with a request to answer our questions. I wanted to discuss not only the activities of our journal, but also the problems of sociology in general. In recent years, situation in sociology has been changing: alarming trends in sociological education in higher education are intensifying, decisions are being made to reduce the subject of social studies in school, the problem of reproduction of scientific personnel is becoming acute, and discussions about the subject of sociology are becoming more urgent. The interview raises such important issues as the essence of sociology as a science, provides an understanding of its functions and tasks, and outlines the structure and levels of sociological knowledge. Important elements of its existence and development are emphasized, in particular the impossibility of forming an exclusively “national” sociology. The development of sociological education in new conditions is discussed. The tasks of the functioning of the Federal Research Sociological Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences are outlined. Attention is focused on personnel problems in science and the perception of sociology by government institutions.

Enriching Social Cognitive and Behavioral intention by Mobilizing Robotics Tutor-based GenAI in Education 6.0

The study aims to investigate the impact of incorporating robotics-based GenAI into pedagogical approaches, in order to enrich social cognitive development in the higher education context. By examining the impact of robotics-based Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) on social cognition and learning outcomes, this study investigates the application of GenAI in Indonesian higher education, specifically in sociology programs. In poor countries like Indonesia, where pedagogical and infrastructural constraints prevent its widespread adoption, the report highlights the gap in the application of GenAI in the education system. Over the course of four weeks, 27 sociology students used ChatGPT as a robot tutor for undergraduate students to access information, and the study used a mixed-methods approach to collect data through observation and structured questionnaires. Despite the students' perception of GenAI as a valuable tool for enhancing engagement, problem-solving, and comprehension of intricate sociology topics, the findings revealed no correlation between the use of ChatGPT and students' social cognition. Furthermore, it appears that classroom dynamics and teacher engagement are more important factors influencing undergraduates’ social cognitive development. Future recommendations to fully incorporate GenAI into education and investigate its long-term benefits include strengthening infrastructure, addressing ethical issues, and improving teacher training.

Development of a Multimedia-Based Virtual Tour Learning Media: Sociology Subjects

This research aims to develop multimedia-based learning media through virtual tours in sociology subjects at SMA Negeri 1 Binjai, Langkat. The background of this research is based on technological developments in the industrial era 4.0, which requires education to adapt to these advances, especially for the Alpha generation, who are very familiar with technology. Interesting and effective learning media are very necessary to increase student interest and learning outcomes. The research method used is research and development (R&D) with the Borg & Gall model, which consists of several stages, starting from initial research to field trials. The research results show that virtual tour learning media is effective in increasing student engagement and learning outcomes. The use of this medium makes it easier to access information, increases the attractiveness of learning material, and allows students to learn independently and interactively. This research was carried out at SMA Negeri 1 Binjai, Langkat, in class X of SMA in the 2023–2024 even-semester academic year. The research results show that: (1) multimedia-based virtual tour learning media is suitable for use in sociology subjects at SMA Negeri 1 Binjai, Langkat; (2) multimedia-based virtual tour learning media is more effectively used in sociology subjects at SMA Negeri 1 Binjai, Langkat when compared to PowerPoint media.

“Oh Grandmother, what big teeth you have!” Incentives to spur scientific research at business schools have been treacherous

Scientific research was introduced in business schools in the mid-1950s to raise the quality of business education as well as to improve actual business practices. Schools expected scientific research to provide a benign and respected path toward improvements, and government support for research and students’ strong interest in studying business brought financial resources and hiring opportunities that made large changes possible. Consequently, hundreds of business schools began urging professors to publish scientific research. Sixty years later, plentiful evidence is showing that scientific research has not brought expected benefits for business operations; on the contrary, business-school research has generated a high percentage of untrustworthy “findings”. This disappointing outcome has six interacting causes: (1) Business schools have expanded by hiring professors who study fundamental topics of economics, psychology, and sociology rather than topics relevant for business practices, so few research findings have been adopted and tested by firms. (2) Instead of evaluating the quality or consequences of research, schools have relied on evaluations by journal editors and reviewers, whose overriding criteria emphasize theory at the expense of practical implications. (3) Editorial evaluations have high error rates because editors and reviewers only know what researchers choose to tell them, and because the complexity of manuscripts causes editors and reviewers to disagree frequently. (4) Schools have incentivized professors by making promotions and job security depend on publishing numerous papers in “prestigious” journals. (5) Many professors have responded to these incentives by engaging in covert practices that make studies unlikely to be supported in replications, and some professors have gone so far as to manufacture fake data. (6) Researchers, editors, and reviewers have largely relied on null-hypothesis statistical significance tests, which are prone to interpret small variations or random errors in data as “significant” findings. Although there are fresh efforts to make research findings more reliable and impactful, the need for further interventions to reform the present knowledge-production system is all too apparent.

Showcasing the Variety of Biosocial and Evolutionary Approaches in Sociology: Introduction to the Special Issue

This introduction to the special issue explores the increasing integration of biosocial and evolutionary approaches within sociology, highlighting the diverse ways in which these perspectives are incorporated into sociological research. In the past, sociology had reservations against or even rejected biological and evolutionary explanations of human behavior and often viewed them with skepticism. However, recent developments have seen a resurgence of interest in these approaches, leading to the emergence of interdisciplinary subfields such as biosociology, evolutionary sociology, neurosociology, and sociogenomics. This introduction provides a historical overview of biological and evolutionary thinking with regard to human behavior and sociality, tracing its roots from Darwinian theory to its contemporary applications within sociology. We discuss the conceptual and methodological differences between these approaches and offer an overview of key contributions that illustrate their relevance to core sociological topics. The articles in this special issue—which we summarize in this introduction—exemplify the variety of work being done at the intersection of sociology and the bio- and evolutionary sciences, from theoretical explorations to empirical studies. By presenting this range of interdisciplinary research, we aim to invite a broader sociological audience to engage with these perspectives, contributing to the development of a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior that sheds the dualism between nature and nurture—long overcome outside of sociology—for a consolidated effort to examine how nature and nurture are intertwined in multiple and complex ways.

Digital Learning Media in Interactive Multimedia Based on Inquiry Approach for Sociology Learning in High Schools

The rapid evolution of technology presents significant challenges in its integration into educational environments. Despite these challenges, interactive multimedia digital learning materials stand out as an effective means to meet educational objectives in high schools. By combining these materials with methodologies like inquiry-based learning, educators can offer a richer and more dynamic learning experience. Therefore, the objective of this research is to develop interactive multimedia with an inquiry-based approach that is suitable for use in education. The research method used in this study is research and development, adopting the Alessi & Trollip model. The research sample consist of 7 people which was media experts, subject matter experts, practitioners (subject teachers), and 42 students. Data collection is conducted through non-test methods such as observation and questionnaires. The research data is then analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The research results show that in the alpha testing phase, the developed interactive multimedia received a "Very Good" qualification from the experts and practitioners who acted as validators, with an overall average score of 87%. Meanwhile, the beta testing results with the research subjects, the students, gave a rating of 87% which falls under the "Very Good" qualification. Thus, interactive multimedia with an inquiry-based approach is deemed suitable for use as a learning medium in sociology subjects. This research showed that the inquiry-based multimedia for sociology could be a tool to facilitate learning activities in high schools.

Sociological themes in Saeed Ashar's fiction

Sociological themes in Saeed Ashar's fiction

IMPLEMENTATION OF SOCIOLOGY LEARNING WITH PBL MODEL IN THE INDEPENDENT CURRICULUM AT SMA NEGERI 1 CISARUA WEST BANDUNG REGENCY

Sociology subjects are expected to instill the ability to analyze phenomena and solve social problems in students later, but in reality it is considered an unimportant subject and less desirable by students. This is due to the use of learning methods and models that are not varied by teachers in teaching so that student learning interest becomes minimal and ultimately has an impact on students' lack of understanding of sociological material. Problem Based Learning (PBL) is one of the recommended learning models in the independent curriculum, because PBL provides opportunities for students to apply their concepts to real situations. So it requires students to think critically in solving every problem. This study aims to see how the implementation of sociology learning with the PBL model in the independent curriculum at SMA Negeri 1 Cisarua. This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study method. Informants are selected by purposive sampling techniques and the key informants are teachers of sociology subjects in class XI, while supporting informants are vice principals for curriculum and grade XI students who take sociology elective subjects. Data analysis is carried out by data reduction, data presentation, and conclusions. Then to test the validity of the data, researchers use triangulation of data collection techniques and triangulation of data sources. From the results of the study, it was found that the implementation of sociology learning with the PBL model in the independent curriculum at SMA Negeri 1 Cisarua was the same as when the previous curriculum still followed the syntax of the PBL model that had been conceptually determined, the difference was only in the existence of learning patterns in the independent curriculum such as differentiated learning, essential materials and the existence of the P5 program.

The Effectiveness of an Educational Program Based on Generative Learning in The Development of Classroom Interaction Among Fourth-Grade Students in the Subject of Sociology

The Effectiveness of an Educational Program Based on Generative Learning in The Development of Classroom Interaction Among Fourth-Grade Students in the Subject of Sociology

Understanding asexuality: A sociological review

AbstractAsexuality, a sexual identity that refers to those who experience low/no sexual attraction, has garnered increasing attention in recent years, yet its sociological exploration remains relatively nascent. This review article examines the burgeoning interdisciplinary field of asexuality studies through a sociological lens, examining asexual studies' conceptualizations, theoretical frameworks, and empirical contributions. First, I review how asexuality is defined and conceptualized in existing literature, highlighting diverse understandings and complexities surrounding this sexual orientation. I analyze the various conceptualizations of asexuality, ranging from the absence of sexual attraction to conceptualizations that emphasize the fluidity and spectrum of asexual identities. Next, I identify the subfields in sociology where asexuality studies is making or has the potential to make theoretical and empirical interventions. I examine how asexuality intersects with broader sociological themes such as gender, sexuality, identity, the family, intimacy, relationships, stigma, and community. Drawing on existing research, I examine how asexuality challenges normative assumptions about sexuality and how it contributes to ongoing conversations within sociology. Finally, I offer recommendations for how sociologists can approach the study of asexuality. I advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration, methodological pluralism, and intersectional analyses to capture the complexity and diversity of asexual experiences. Moreover, I emphasize the importance of centering asexual voices and perspectives in research, while also acknowledging the ethical considerations and challenges inherent in studying a marginalized and often misunderstood sexual orientation. Overall, this review provides a scoping overview of the sociology of asexuality, offering insights into its conceptualizations, theoretical implications, and avenues for future research.

Training on the Preparation of Culturally Responsif Teaching-Based Teaching Materials in Sociology Subject

Training on the Preparation of Culturally Responsif Teaching-Based Teaching Materials in Sociology Subject

EDUCATIONAL NEEDS OF OLDER ADULTS

The aim of the article is to find out educational needs of older adults and to discuss the process of the training course development and its implementation jointly with older learners in Lithuania. Mixed methods research was applied incorporating survey and participatory research. The training course was developed based on international survey data aiming to reach older learners who had less possibilities to engage in a lifelong learning process. Data analysis revealed similarities across countries, based on which the general template of the course was developed. It included topics in biological, psychological and sociological aspects of ageing, networking and joint research possibilities. However, data showed that there were variations in needs not only between countries but inside countries as well. Participatory research approach allowed older learners to follow the needs and to make necessary changes. Such changes were made in content (for ex., some sociological topics substituted by culture) and in organization (less intensity and shorter sessions) of the course. Even if the learners agreed to involve in participatory research, at the end they were told that it was too many interviews and discussions. On the other hand, they were proud that other learners will take their designed course.

PERAN GURU DALAM MENINGKATKAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR SISWA PADA MATA PELAJARAN SOSIOLOGI KELAS X DI SMA NEGERI 1 PAITON

The title of this research is "The Role of Teachers in Improving "Students' Learning Motivation in Class X Sociology Subjects at Paiton 1 Public High School". The aim of this research is to understand the role of teachers as motivators, directors and facilitators in fostering students' learning motivation in class X sociology subjects at SMA Negeri 1 Paiton. The method in this research is a qualitative method with descriptive analysis. The techniques used to obtain data in this research are observation, interviews and documentation. The subject of this research is one of the sociology teachers, namely Mr. Romdan Naufal Muttaqin and 6 class X students of SMA Negeri 1 Paiton who have low motivation Study. From the research results it can be concluded that the role of the teacher is: (1) As motivation, teachers motivate students to study hard and give warnings to students. (2) the teacher as a director has the responsibility to discipline students so they can study well in class, monitor and control students behave so that they do not break the rules in class. (3) teacher as facilitator has the responsibility to provide facilities for students, such as media in the teaching and learning process.

Spatial network characteristics and economic effects of element flow in the Lanxi urban agglomeration.

The spatial characteristics of element flow and its spillover are important topics in economics, sociology, and geography, and significant to the promotion of the coordinated development of urban agglomerations. To study element flow in the Lanxi urban agglomeration and its effect to economic development, the spatial network characteristics and economic spillover effect were studied using the methods of spatial network analysis, the spatial Durbin model, and spatial effect decomposition. The results showed that (1) the scale of element flow in the Lanxi urban agglomeration is in an unbalanced distribution state, the scale of element flow in Lanzhou and Xining is higher than that in surrounding cities, and the connection between surrounding cities is also higher than that between other cities; (2) the network structure of element flow in the Lanxi urban agglomeration is relatively intensive, with Lanzhou and Xining as the center of element concentration, which indicates an obvious 'center periphery' structure, and gradually spreads from the core area to the surrounding areas; and (3) the element concentration level of the Lanxi urban agglomeration has a significant positive spillover effect, which plays a significant role in driving the development of surrounding cities. Other factors, such as the social consumption level, have significant direct effects, whereas the industrial structure and residents' income have significant direct and spillover effects, and are the main factors that affect the coordinated development of the regional economy.

Analisis Kompetensi Profesional Guru Dalam Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Sosiologi

The purpose of this study was to determine the professional competence of teachers in improving the learning outcomes of sociology in class X IPS 1 at Kapan State High School and the obstacles faced by Sociology teachers at Kapan Public High School in increasing their professionalism. This research uses a descriptive qualitative research method. Data collection techniques were carried out using observation, interviews, and documentation. The subjects of this study were the school principal and sociology teacher. The data analysis technique uses data reduction, compilation, categorization, and conclusions. Based on the results of this study show that teachers at Kapan State High School cannot be said to be professional; this is because, first, the learning process does not have a sociology subject teacher; some teachers are required to teach sociology even though the teacher is not a sociology subject teacher so that the delivery of sociology subjects is not according to the material presented by the teacher. Second, there are learning barriers that do not include the criteria for completeness of KKM in schools due to teachers who are not always in their scientific field in improving learning outcomes, such as teachers having difficulty in dividing teaching time between sociology and geography, lack of professional educators in the field of sociology, and lesson planning. Thus, the results of learning sociology at the Kapan State High School are ineffective. This is because schools still face many obstacles in providing educators who work in the field of sociology.

Implementation of Web Blog-Based E-Learning Media to Improve Students' Response and Interest in Sociology Learning for Class XI IPS 2

This study aims to determine the use of Web Blog-based E-Learning media to increase students' responses and interest in learning sociology in class XI IPS2 SMA Negeri 2 Mandor. This study seeks to get clarity regarding student responses in Sociology subjects using Web Blogs. In addition, it also examines the interest in studying sociology after students are taught with Web Blogs. The research method that is suitable for use in this study is the ex-post facto method. Sociology learning Web Blog has been implemented, but the impact has never been measured. This study seeks to reveal the impact caused by Web Blogs used in sociology learning. Sampling was done by means of proportional random (proportional random sampling).The results of this study indicate that the use of Web Blogs in teaching Sociology at SMA Negeri 2 Mandor turns out to have a significant effect on both student responses and interest in studying sociology. The results are in line with the developed conceptual framework. If sociology learning uses Web Blogs, the response and interest of students in learning sociology increases. Based on the results of the data, facts and theories obtained on the use of blog media on learning interest in sociology learning at SMA Negeri 2 Mandor, it can be seen that this can happen for several reasons, including: the media blog is a means, intermediary or message delivery (subject matter) whose reception is through hearing and sight, conveyed from both the teacher and the actual reality.

The educational program effectiveness based on generative learning in the literary achievement of fourth-grade female students in the sociology subject

The goal of the current research is to identify the effectiveness of an educational program based on generative learning in the achievement of fourth-grade female students in the subject of sociology. The two researchers used the experimental research method to achieve the research goal, the research sample consisted of two groups (experimental and control), each group consisting of (30) female students. The two researchers built a research tool to test achievement in sociology, it consisted of (50) multiple-choice items and essay questions. The results showed the superiority of the experimental group that studied using the educational program over the control group that studied using the usual method. The two researchers reached a set of recommendations and proposals through the research results

Impact of Student Activity and Environmental Support on Academic Performance at Surakarta High School

This research to find out how student activity and environmental support at Surakarta High School affects their academic achievement in the Sociology subjects will provide valuable insights for educators, parents, and educational stakeholders. Thus, the study aims to systematically analyze the relationship between student activity, environmental support, and academic achievement in the context of learning Sociology at Surakarta High School. This method of research is quantitative using the survey method using google form. Population is a whole student class X Phase E, XI Phase F 6-11 and XII IPS with a sample of 177 students, regression analysis with normality tests, rehabilitation, and hypothesis tests. Thus, the results of this study can be explained by the variables of student activity and environmental support of only 3.1% while the remaining 96.9% are influenced by other factors that are not included in this variable, expected to provide conceptual and practical contributions to improving the quality of learning and student performance at the middle level.
 Keywords: Academic Performance, Environmental Support, Student Activities

Loneliness Is No Longer What It Used to Be

ABSTRACT: Loneliness is a historical affect that emerges from a long history of religious, poetic, and sociological ideas about isolation, solitude, and existential angst. There is a complex journey from theological and poetic ideas about loneliness to some key themes in modern American sociology. Today, the experience of loneliness is dramatically affected by the need for social distancing and the use of social media. In these new circumstances, has the meaning of loneliness radically changed?