Sociology Earns Provost’s Award for Excellence in Teaching

In recognition of its focus on teaching and student learning, the Department of Sociology in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences is the 2015 recipient of the Provost’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.

The department has established structures and practices that “maintain an intimate sociological community among students in a large and growing university,” said Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Joan Lorden, who applauded Sociology faculty for their efforts. This honor is granted annually to an academic department, office, or program in recognition of the collective responsibility of faculty members for maintaining high-quality teaching, and to acknowledge documented efforts that improve student learning and outcomes.

Over the past ten years, the Department of Sociology has continuously taken innovative approaches to providing an engaging and well-rounded curriculum for students, Lorden said. To achieve this goal, the department has focused on new student engagement, written communication, honors education, and international experiences.

The department currently is developing a capstone course and curriculum to launch in Fall 2016, incorporating an e-portfolio element to track and access student performance and productivity over time. To facilitate student integration, the department has implemented an orientation for new majors so that they are able to more easily navigate the path toward a sociology degree.

A partnership with University College pilots and implements innovate approaches to teaching, including large course redesign, Prospect for Success, and e-portfolio. Sociology faculty offer high quality advising and academic services within a flexible, responsive culture that uses effective review and assessment as the basis for improvement, according to award materials. By integrating teaching and mentoring, the department prepares graduate students for personal and professional achievements beyond the degree program.

The Provost’s Award for Excellence in Teaching is supported by funds from the UNC System Board of Governors, with a $5,000 award and a plaque commemorating the department’s achievements in teaching.