SOCIOLOGICAL LABORATORY II - WORKING GROUP

Sociology Laboratory II is a continuation and deepening of the path started in Sociology Laboratory I, with a more specific focus on the ability to articulate theoretical and conceptual ideas. While in the first module students acquired tools to apply sociological theories and concepts to the analysis of social reality, in this second module they will be called upon to develop, in a more autonomous and structured way, the ability to elaborate well-founded sociological interpretations, refining their aptitude for the critical and conscious use of conceptual categories.

Unlike the first module, which had a general approach, Sociology Laboratory II will be entirely dedicated to a monographic theme, which will serve as a common thread throughout the course. In this edition, the course will focus on the analysis of the relationship between work, poverty, and society, exploring the connections between transformations in work, conditions of poverty, and social dynamics. Through practical exercises, guided discussions, and moments of debate, students will be encouraged to directly experiment with the use of sociological theoretical and methodological tools in the analysis of this topic.

Know and understand
The main theoretical perspectives of sociology applied to the analysis of the relationship between work, poverty, and society.
The sociological debate on the transformations of work and the mechanisms of production and reproduction of poverty.
The role of sociological categories in the critical reading of social policies and economic transformations.

Be able to
Use the sociological terminology acquired during the course autonomously and confidently.
Critically analyse situations, problems, and policies related to the monographic topic, situating them within their respective theoretical frameworks.
Recognise different theoretical perspectives in political discourse, public policy, and debates on work and poverty.
Compare and relate different theoretical approaches to a social or political issue.
Develop interpretations based on theoretical and empirical foundations of the social dynamics related to work and poverty.

Have acquired the ability to
Summarise in written and oral form the main theoretical perspectives applied to the analysis of work and poverty, using appropriate sociological language.
Present and critically discuss, in a structured and respectful manner, their own observations on questions and topics covered in the course.
Consult and critically analyse the reference bibliography, developing the ability to read and interpret sociological texts independently.
Connect the concepts and discussions addressed in the course, relating them to concrete social issues, empirical data, and journalistic or political sources.

No specific prerequisites are required.

The workshop focuses on the empirical application of sociological categories and perspectives through the analysis of the relationship between work, poverty, and society. Students will be actively involved in practical exercises, analytical activities, and moments of collective reflection, with the aim of developing critical and operational skills in the use of sociological research tools.

Operationally, the workshop will be divided into two phases.

First phase: This will be dedicated to the exploration of sociological categories and interpretative perspectives useful for analysing the connections between work and poverty. Students will work with different types of empirical material, including texts, interviews, institutional documents, and press articles, developing a critical approach to reading and interpreting the transformations of work and forms of social marginalisation. This phase will be introductory and cross-disciplinary, aimed at developing the ability to link theoretical concepts with empirical processes.

- Filandri M. (2022). “Lavorare non basta.” Bari, Laterza
- Busso S., Meo A., Morlicchio E. (2018). “Il buono, il brutto e il cattivo. Rappresentazioni e forme di ‘regolazione dei poveri’ nelle misure di sostegno al reddito.” SINAPPSI, 3/2018, pp. 69-83.
- Morlicchio E. (2023). Il lavoro come maledizione e come salvezza. Costituzionalismo.it, 3/2023, pp.17-39

One of the following texts:

- Trevisan V. (ed 2022). “Works”. Torino, Einaudi,
- Prunetti A. (2012). “Amianto. Una storia operaia”, Roma, Edizioni Alegre.
- Ottieri O. (ed 2023). “Donnarumma all’assalto.” Letteraria Europa – (o altre edizioni)
- Di Donato P. (ed. 2022). “Cristi fra i muratori”. Ladispoli, Readerforblind

Learning is assessed based on:
- 80% written exam with open questions aimed at assessing the acquisition of knowledge and understanding, the ability to recognise and apply concepts and theories, the ability to critically analyse topics and problems using the knowledge acquired during the course, and the use of appropriate terminology.
- 20% individual assignment aimed at verifying the students' ability to reflect on the topics, problems and perspectives that emerged during the course through the critical reading of one of the texts of their choice.

written

As for the grading of marks (the method by which marks will be assigned), regardless of whether the course is attended or not:

A. Scores in the range 18–22 will be awarded in the presence of:

Sufficient knowledge and applied comprehension skills with reference to the programme;
Limited ability to collect and/or interpret data and formulate independent judgements;
Sufficient communication skills, particularly in relation to the use of sociological terminology.

B. Scores in the range 23–26 will be awarded in the presence of:

Fair knowledge and applied understanding with reference to the programme;
Fair ability to collect and/or interpret data and formulate independent judgements;
Fair communication skills, particularly in relation to the use of sociological terminology.

C. Scores in the range 27–30 will be awarded in the presence of:
Good or excellent knowledge and applied understanding with reference to the programme;
Good or excellent ability to collect and/or interpret data and formulate independent judgements;
Fully appropriate communication skills, particularly in relation to the use of specific sociological terminology.
D. Distinction will be awarded in the presence of excellent knowledge and applied understanding with reference to the programme, strong analytical and communication skills, and above all, the development of critical thinking.

The course is based on lectures, laboratory work, and seminar activities, including classroom presentations of previously conducted research. The laboratory and seminar activities, together with the individual study programme, will aim to develop the ability to critically analyse research and the methods used, forming the basis for the guided construction of the exercise.
Attendance and active participation are strongly recommended.

Italian

Language of instruction: Italian.
The course materials and information (recommended reading for individual study, and PowerPoint slides) will be available on the course page of the Moodle platform.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Circular economy, innovation, work" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development