Impact and Influence Outside of the Sociological Ivory Tower: Building the Next Generation of Policy, Practice-Based, and Applied Sociologists for Social Change

Session Submission Type: Invited Session (90 minute)

Description

The debate between pure and applied research is a long-standing issue in sociology. Recognizing the widespread social inequality in American society and the rapidly changing landscape, it is clear that sociology is uniquely positioned among other disciplines to produce research that informs policy, practice, and narratives, promoting positive changes that benefit all communities. This session explores what it entails to build a more robust field of applied and engaged sociologists within and outside of the university, including creating pipelines, offering training and support, resources, partnerships, and other forms of capacity-building. Questions that the session will answer include: How can universities and bureaucratic infrastructure better support solutions-focused research? How can universities transform perceptions of applied research as a service by changing policies, teaching courses that focus on applied research, and supporting students who desire applied jobs at foundations, community-based organizations, think tanks, research firms, or public policy organizations that directly impact lives in local communities? Overall, the session seeks to enliven and embolden the potential, possibilities, and impact that applied research in sociology can have on local and national issues facing communities most impacted by inequality.

Sub Unit

• Thematic Session

Presider

• Rodrigo Martinez, RMartinez@aecf.org

Panelists

• Rodrigo Martinez, RMartinez@aecf.org

• John Eason, Brown University/Urban Institute

• Derrick Brooms, Morehouse College

• LesLeigh Ford, Duke University

• Anthony James Williams, The Spencer Foundation

Session Organizer

• Rodrigo Martinez, RMartinez@aecf.org