Honours Sociology and Criminology students enrolled in the fourth-year experiential learning course "Committing Sociology" had the opportunity to share their research in Dante Lenardon Hall on January 15, 2025.
The event provided students with a platform to share not only their research findings but also their experiences in conducting student-led research and applying sociological principles to real-world issues. During their presentations, students discussed the research process, including identifying social issues of interest, networking with stakeholders, engaging with target audiences, and developing knowledge translation strategies.
Dr. Tara Bruno, Associate Professor of Sociology, introduced each of the student-led projects. She shared insights into the purpose of the course, the challenges encountered, and the positive impacts of mentoring students and involving them in addressing social issues beyond the university setting.
"It was rewarding to see how students grew personally and academically. They should be proud of themselves for what they have accomplished in four months," says Dr. Bruno.
Students emphasized how their research projects have the potential to make a meaningful impact on society and their local communities. Additionally, they reflected on the effect the course has had on their personal growth, skill development, and future aspirations.
Cole Nelson, a fourth-year Psychology and Sociology student, focused his project on improving public transportation in London. His research highlighted the lack of reliable transportation options and proposed strategies for the City of London to implement better services.
"I believe that the results of my research can help populations such as students, individuals with disabilities, and suburban residents access reliable transportation," Nelson said. The course, he added, taught him problem-solving skills and strategies for effective knowledge translation, as well as how to drive social change in areas he's passionate about.
"This course has shown me that most social issues can be solved if you are passionate. I wanted to look into the public transit system and successfully implement social impact there...This program helped me to realize that you can actually think outside the box and implement social change for whatever you want to change," says Nelson.
Anastasia Perangin-Angin and Lily Ferguson collaborated on a project aimed at improving Gender-Based Sexual Violence (GBSV) resources on campus, with a focus on King's disclosure processes. Partnering with Red Zone and Emily Carrothers, King's Campus and Community Social Worker. They developed an accessible disclosure process flowchart that centres on survivors' needs and provides a clear, user-friendly resource.
"We wanted it to be more survivor-centered so that survivors could get the help they need. We got to build connections with people we didn't know, and it was rewarding," says Perangin-Angin. She adds that "I had the pleasure of connecting with various stakeholders within the King's community, building lasting connections and enhancing my communication skills." She noted that engaging in applied sociology and experiential learning at King's demonstrated the significant impact individuals can have in creating meaningful change.
Samavia Choudhary, a fourth-year Sociology student, explored the effects of screen use on youth. Her research aims to benefit youth, parents, educators, and others working with young people. She collaborated with the City of London to find what resources were available and then created new resources directed towards youth.
"This program allows youth to become their own change makers and decide for themselves what they want to do," says Choudhary.
She emphasized the immense personal impact of the project, including building connections with stakeholders, strengthening relationships, and honing skills such as time management and organization.
Choudhary concluded, "This course has built my confidence and expanded my learning in areas I was previously interested in. I was able to challenge myself in new ways. It's been invaluable for my personal and professional growth."
Brittany Halliwell, a fourth-year Criminology and Thanatology student, proposes an addition to King's Gender and Sexual Violence web page that would include information, resources and support for victims and perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV) and family violence as well as specific support for the diverse communities on campus.
Halliwell suggests that clear and straightforward resources could ensure that students, faculty, and staff receive support faster.
"By raising awareness through gathering and distributing information, societal perceptions can change, such as those that lead to stigma around accessing support. Furthermore, safe and accessible support systems are necessary for survivors to heal and seek justice," Halliwell says.
The project allowed Halliwell to acquire skills in networking, email composition, public speaking and time management. "The most rewarding part of working on the project came from the connections I had made. I met amazing people from the community, such as the Muslim Resource Centre for Social Support and Integration (MRCSSI) and people within the King's community," she says.
Fourth-year Sociology and Criminology student Tyria Vassallo's project focused on virtual workplace discrimination, aiming to implement equity in workplaces across Canada. Vassallo says she enjoyed working with Dr. Bruno, who provided support and answered her questions.
Working on the Committing Sociology project allowed Vassallo to improve her problem-solving skills. "It pushed me out of my comfort zone," she says. "I was glad to meet all the great people in my class and foster those connections."
Caitlyn Ramdharry, a fourth-year Criminology and Sociology student, was not present but had completed a project advocating for the establishment of a correctional healing lodge in Ontario. Her research responds to Calls to Action 31 and 32 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, emphasizing the ineffectiveness of current prison institutions for Indigenous offenders and addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous individuals in the criminal justice system.
By documenting systemic barriers and historical injustices, Ramdharry's work contributes to ongoing Truth and Reconciliation efforts.
"This course has shown me the value of ensuring research is accessible to the communities it aims to support and advocate for," Ramdharry says. She noted that the course enhanced her analytical skills, data interpretation abilities, report writing, project management, and expertise in knowledge translation.
The Committing Sociology course demonstrates how experiential learning can bridge the gap between academic research and real-world application. By addressing pressing social issues, building community connections, and fostering personal growth, students leave the course equipped to effect meaningful change both within and beyond their communities.
