Hands-on sociology: sixth formers explore the campus

As part of the Dortmund University Days at TU Dortmund University, a group of sixth formers joined Chiara Wientjens from our team on an unusual discovery tour across the campus. During a “sociological rally”, they learned just how fascinating everyday sociology can be – right on site and in the midst of university life.

Through small observation exercises, the participants experienced first-hand that even everyday situations are shaped by social rules: In lifts, unspoken norms became visible; in the canteen, small “crisis experiments” offered surprising insights into social interaction; and in the library, it became clear how naturally we fulfil certain roles (and expectations) – and what happens when we don’t.

The rally showed that sociology is everywhere – in conversation, while walking across campus, and even when waiting for the H-Bahn. It was a successful insight into the world of scientific observation and reflection on what seems self-evident – one that both we and the sixth formers thoroughly enjoyed.