The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), in collaboration with the SWAYAM platform under a Government of India initiative, has introduced a comprehensive online course on Sociology specifically designed for school-level learners. This educational program is completely free of charge and aims to provide students with foundational knowledge in sociology through a structured 24-week curriculum.
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes
Open to all school students, this course seeks to move participants beyond common-sense understandings of society by fostering a sociological perspective. It encourages critical thinking and questioning of everyday assumptions, using concepts, theories, and research methods to analyze social reality. Students will explore what sociology entails, how sociologists study society, and the impact of societal structures on individuals.
Detailed Syllabus and Course Structure
The course is organized into five chapters, each focusing on essential areas of sociology:
- Sociology and Society: Defines the discipline and explains its relevance.
- Social Groups and Social Stratification: Covers caste, class, race, ethnicity, gender, and status.
- Major Social Institutions: Includes family, marriage, economy, politics, religion, and education.
- Culture and Socialization: Helps students grasp values, norms, and socialization processes.
- Sociological Research Methods: Explains how sociologists study the social world.
Each chapter includes assignments, culminating in a final assessment at the end of the course.
Important Dates, Eligibility, and Assessment Details
The Sociology course commenced on September 22, 2025, and will conclude on March 6, 2026. Enrollment is open until February 20, 2026, with exam registration ending on March 2, 2026. The final assessment is scheduled between March 3 and March 6, 2026, subject to seat availability. Students who achieve a score of 60 percent or higher will receive a course completion certificate from SWAYAM.
Instructor and Study Material
The course is led by Dr. Tasongwi Newmei from NERIE, Shillong, who brings extensive academic experience in sociology, teacher training, and research. The primary reference material is NCERT's Introducing Sociology textbook for Class XI, available for free download on the official NCERT website.
This initiative represents a significant step in enhancing digital education resources for Indian students, promoting analytical skills and a deeper understanding of social dynamics.
