Theory into Practice: Putting Social Science to the Test
Share
Addressing social issues and devising sustainable solutions necessitates an interdisciplinary approach that transcends traditional academic boundaries. Many students encounter challenges in translating conceptual learning into real-world applications. The job market increasingly demands graduates who not only understand theoretical concepts, but also possess contextual knowledge and the ability to engage effectively with communities.
The Putting Social Science to the Test course immerses students in real-world community challenges. It is designed to bridge this gap by focusing on significant questions through a combination of theoretical exploration, hands-on fieldwork, and problem-oriented learning. It adopts an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from anthropology and economics, enabling students to gain firsthand experience in understanding and addressing local developmental challenges.
By promoting active community engagement, students are equipped to conduct field research, exploring how broader economic trends, such as economic downturns, impact daily life in Lahore's working-class neighborhoods. By engaging directly with communities facing issues like overstrained water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure, students gain insights into how households navigate economic shocks and make decisions. This hands-on experience not only enhances their research skills but also deepens their understanding of the influence of gender roles, power structures within households, and social and economic resilience.
Student engagement is a cornerstone of the course, and featured lectures by prominent field and government experts. The course also partnered with Yale University’s Quantitative Research Course, led by Dr. Sarah Khan, to enhance the academic rigor and broaden the learning experience. Post-graduation, students continue their engagement with NGOs and social workers in their field sites, such as the ongoing work with Chiragh Ghar in Chungi Amar Sadhu.
The outcomes of the course have been significant and diverse. Students produce technical research reports and blogs that communicate their findings to a broader audience, thus extending the impact of their work beyond the classroom. Many graduates secure placements in prestigious programs at institutions like NYU and Columbia. Additionally, there are ongoing discussions with scholars from other leading universities in the Global South about the possibility of developing parallel courses, fostering a global exchange of knowledge and practices.
