Sports and Society Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview (80-120 words) describing structure and time commitment.
Module 1: Getting Started! Games, Play, and Sports
Estimated time: 2 hours
- Understand the origins and purposes of play and sports
- Explore the development of modern sports
- Analyze the cultural roots of Capoeira as a case study
Module 2: Globalization, Nationalism, and the Politics of Sports
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Examine the global spread of sports and its political implications
- Discuss nationalism in sports contexts
- Analyze athlete activism and its societal impact
Module 3: Race, Cultural Identity, and the Sports World
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Investigate racial dynamics within sports
- Study controversies such as Native American mascots
- Understand social demographics in sports participation and viewership
Module 4: Gender and Sexuality in Sports
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Explore gender roles and expectations in sports
- Discuss challenges faced by LGBTQ+ athletes
- Analyze media representations of gender in sports
Module 5: Money, Media, and the Business of Sports
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Understand the commercialization of sports
- Examine media’s role in shaping sports narratives
- Discuss economic structures supporting sports industries
Module 6: Sports, Ethics, and Society
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Delve into ethical dilemmas such as doping and corruption
- Discuss the role of sports in education and youth development
- Analyze societal responsibilities of athletes and organizations
Module 7: Final Reflections and Course Conclusion
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Summarize key learnings from the course
- Reflect on personal perspectives regarding sports in society
- Prepare for further exploration or application of course concepts
Prerequisites
- No prior knowledge required
- Interest in sports and social issues
- Basic English reading and comprehension skills
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Analyze the cultural, political, and economic dimensions of sports globally
- Evaluate the impact of race, gender, and nationalism in sports
- Understand the historical evolution and societal impacts of sports
- Examine the role of commercialization and media in sports
- Apply critical thinking to ethical and social issues in sports