Mini-debates on the seminars in the course “Sociology of communication” (cases and variants)

Abstract

This methodic project presents materials that enable an instructor to prepare and conduct mini-debates during seminars of the course “Sociology of communications” and it covers the following topics: “Network organisations and Internet-communication”, “Public relations Sociology”, “Sociology of advertising”, “Communication in organisations”. The description is carried out in accordance with the basic structural components of a mini-debate, namely: 1) thematic description of problem situations in the original text, 2) substantiation of the importance and urgency of the problem, 3) formulation of the discussion questions and alternative positions for discussion, 4) the articulation of specific learning outcomes (learning outcomes) as a result of conducting a mini-debate. It is emphasized that the basis of allocating the problem situation supports the importance of the subject for the development of modern sociological knowledge. The following topics are developed and presented in materials: “The relations of power in the informational society: traditional institutions vs. network structures”, “Social networking: the strength of weak ties”, “New technologies in PR: total control or freedom of the consumer”, “Psychological manipulation in advertising“, “Types of consumer advertising on the Internet”, “Positional bargaining or interest-based negotiation: which is better?”, “Communication networks and communication roles in organizations”. Refs 8. Figs 2. Tables 2.