Spring 2016 - SA 461 D100

Special Topics in Sociology (S) (4)

Mobilities After the Car

Class Number: 2307

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 11, 2016: Wed, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Prerequisites:

    Minimum 72 units including SA 101 or 150 or 201W.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An advanced seminar devoted to an in-depth examination of a topic in Sociology not regularly offered by the department.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course offers an advanced introduction to the mobilities paradigm. We will cover the mobilities paradigm by examining its theoretical foundations and empirical debates over the car, cycling and the city, as well as the suite of ‘mobile methods’ that offer an innovative and practical set of tools for social scientists. We will also apply these tools to understand mobilities in the rich empirical context of Vancouver during trips into the field. Informed and inspired by Vancouver’s mobility landscape, this seminar will analyze critical (im)mobility problems, such as the system of automobility, urban sprawl and gentrification, and investigate the production of ecologically sustainable mobilities such as cycling, walking and public transit. Each seminar will feature a lecture, in class dialogue related to weekly readings, and mobility labs. Be prepared to leave the classroom and explore Vancouver’s dynamic mobility landscape. In order to complete course evaluations, students are required to conduct independent research outside the classroom. These activities may require travel by vehicle, public transit, cycling, or on foot.

Grading

  • Seminar Participation, Facilitation, & Critical Reflection Papers 30%
  • Book Review Essay & Presentation 20%
  • Research Projects 50%

REQUIREMENTS:

Where a final exam is scheduled and you do not write the exam or withdraw from the course before the deadline date, you will be assigned an N grade. Unless otherwise specified on the course outline, all other graded assignments in this course must be completed for a final grade other than N to be assigned. If you fail to complete 40% (or more) of course evaluations, you will receive an “N”, which for purposes of academic standing is equivalent to “F”.

Academic Dishonesty and Misconduct Policy:
The Department of Sociology and Anthropology follows SFU policy in relation to grading practices, grade appeals (Policy T 20.01) and academic dishonesty and misconduct procedures (S10.01- S10.04). Unless otherwise informed by your instructor in writing, in graded written assignments you must cite the sources you rely on and include a bibliography/list of references, following an instructor-approved citation style. It is the responsibility of students to inform themselves of the content of SFU policies available on the SFU website: http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student.html.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be on library reserve via CANVAS.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS