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| The Master of Sociology Study Program at the Directorate of Postgraduate Programs (DPPS) of University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) invited dozens of sociology teachers from Banyuwangi for a discussion. (Photo: Special) |
The Master of Sociology Study Program at the Directorate of Postgraduate Programs (DPPS) of University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) invited dozens of sociology teachers from Banyuwangi to a discussion on February 4. This initiative aims to strengthen the teaching of sociology in high schools and create synergy between classroom learning and university education. The event, held in collaboration with the Banyuwangi Sociology Subject Teacher Conference (MGMP), took place at SMAN 1 Rogojampi, Banyuwangi.
"More than 36 sociology teachers participated in the discussion, sharing insights and ideas. We explored various aspects of empowerment, including effective strategies for its implementation in the field. The discussion covered how to instill the values of empowerment, key issues that need to be addressed, and engaging ways to teach this concept to students," explained Rachmad K. Dwi Susilo, M.A., Ph.D., Head of the Master of Sociology Program at UMM.
According to him, community empowerment is closely linked to social change and development. Therefore, students should not only understand the theory but also be able to analyze and design empowerment strategies based on the social conditions in their surroundings. In Banyuwangi, for example, ecology-based tourism is a key sector. Teachers can guide students in exploring ways to develop tourism without harming the environment, helping them grasp the concept while fostering critical thinking skills.
Rachmad also emphasized the importance of enhancing teachers' capacity to make sociology lessons more engaging and relevant. "We aim to equip teachers not only to teach theoretical concepts from textbooks but also to integrate real-world social issues and practical applications into the classroom. This approach encourages students to think critically about social problems and develop solutions," he stated.
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Rachmad also emphasized the importance of enhancing teachers' capacity to make sociology lessons more engaging and relevant. "We aim to equip teachers not only to teach theoretical concepts from textbooks but also to integrate real-world social issues and practical applications into the classroom. This approach encourages students to think critically about social problems and develop solutions," he stated.
Interestingly, this initiative received a positive response from both the school and the teachers. MGMP Secretary Mei Rita noted that a field experience-based approach is more relevant than relying solely on textbook theory. She emphasized that this method enables students not only to master theoretical knowledge but also to apply it in their daily lives. (nam/wil/mrh)
