Performing Theory

Abstract

This article discusses pedagogical exercises developed to help students appreciate the power of sociological perspectives as they seek to better understand their own lives and the world around them. The assignments are focused on fulfilling the particular course learning goal that highlights student mastery of the application of diverse theoretical perspectives in societal analysis. The article offers a brief overview of how theoretical thinking is introduced in the classroom and continues with a discussion of particular assignments used to promote student engagement and understanding: the preparation of a letter to a theorist, the creation of a poster to visually represent the life and ideas of a theorist, and the writing and performance of a play “starring” theorists studied in class. The article concludes with a discussion of the issues of assessment and student learning and a consideration of how these assignments may benefit student learners both within and outside of sociology.