Social Norms, Social Change II

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/change

Introduction

### Course Review: Social Norms, Social Change II **Course Title:** Social Norms, Social Change II **Platform:** Coursera **Link to Course:** [Social Norms, Social Change II](https://coursera.org/learn/norms) **Pre-requisite:** Completion of Social Norms, Social Change I --- **Course Overview:** Building on the foundations laid in Part I, "Social Norms, Social Change II" delves deeper into the mechanics of social change and the vital role that social norms play in shaping behaviors and expectations within societies. Designed for those who are passionate about understanding societal dynamics, this course explores the tools we can utilize to implement meaningful change. If you have completed the first part of the series, this course offers a seamless transition into advanced concepts that will further enhance your knowledge and practical skills in influencing social behavior. **Course Synopsis:** The course is organized into insightful modules that encourage both theoretical understanding and practical application: 1. **Honors Lesson: Scripts and Schemas** - This module introduces the cognitive frameworks—scripts and schemas—that guide our understanding of social situations and expectations. It underlines their integral connection with social norms, enabling learners to comprehend how these cognitive structures influence behavior on a broad societal level. 2. **Norm Creation** - Participants will explore the dynamics of how norms are established and the societal forces at play in this process. This section is crucial for anyone looking to initiate change, as it provides strategies to identify and create effective norms. 3. **Norm Abandonment** - Here, learners will examine the process of norm abandonment, which is equally vital for enacting social change. This module evaluates personal beliefs vis-a-vis social expectations and reviews various intervention strategies, including legal reforms, information campaigns, economic incentives, and group deliberations. This comprehensive look at interventions prepares learners to implement effective strategies in real-world scenarios. 4. **Trendsetters and Social Change** - This engaging module focuses on the influential role of trendsetters in effecting change. It addresses questions such as: Who are trendsetters? What attributes define them? How can they be identified and leveraged for social good? Additionally, the course delves into the role of entertainment media, including soap operas and edutainment, as vehicles for social change, showcasing how fictional narratives can inspire real-world action. --- **Why Take This Course?** "Social Norms, Social Change II" is a thoughtfully curated exploration of the societal mechanics that drive change. Here are several reasons to consider enrolling: 1. **Deepen Your Understanding:** Building on Part I, this course offers a thorough exploration of complex concepts like scripts and schemas, which can enhance your understanding of human behavior in social contexts. 2. **Interactive Learning:** The course encourages practical application through discussions and projects, allowing you to apply your learning effectively. 3. **Expert Insights:** Instructors provide expert perspectives and case studies that illuminate how social norms can be transformed, equipping learners with actionable knowledge. 4. **Impactful Applications:** For those interested in careers in social work, policy-making, marketing, or any field requiring an understanding of social dynamics, this course equips you with the tools and frameworks necessary to enact meaningful change in your community. 5. **Flexible Learning Environment:** Coursera’s platform allows for self-paced learning, giving you the flexibility to explore the material at your own speed. --- **Recommendation:** If you have a keen interest in social psychology, change management, or community development, I cannot recommend "Social Norms, Social Change II" highly enough. It is meticulously designed for learners who aspire to not only understand social dynamics but to also influence them. The depth of knowledge, coupled with practical strategies for change, makes this course a valuable addition to your educational journey. Whether you are looking to enhance your career or simply expand your personal knowledge, this course will equip you with the necessary tools to navigate and impact social norms to foster positive change.

Syllabus

Honors Lesson: Scripts and Schemas

This course is "part 2" of Social Norms, Social Change and the lessons here are a continuation of the first course. This module covers scripts and schemas, the cognitive structures in which social expectations are embedded, and their relationship with social norms.

This module covers the essentials of norm abandonment, including the relations between personal beliefs and social expectations. It also evaluates existing intervention strategies, including legal reforms, information campaigns, economic incentives, and group deliberations.

This module covers trendsetters and their relations to social change. Who are trendsetters? What are their characteristics? How can we identify them? And how can we use them to bring about positive social change. This module also discusses the role of soap operas and edutainment in bringing about social change, how fictional characters and groups can act as trendsetters, and comparative advantages of edutainment interventions over traditional interventions.