Tangerang Selatan (08/21/25) – The Sociology Study Program at Universitas Terbuka (UT), in collaboration with the MGMP (Subject Teacher Association) for Sociology in South Tangerang, held a community service program (PkM) in the form of a workshop titled “Strengthening Understanding, Inspiring Learning in the Digital Era.” This event aimed to deepen teachers’ understanding of Sociology and encourage the application of this knowledge in the learning process within the ever-evolving digital era. 

The event began with a welcome speech from the Head of the PkM and Sociology Study Program, Dra. Parwitaningsih, M.Si., who expressed appreciation for the collaboration and hoped the workshop would be a moment for teachers to update and strengthen their understanding of the essence of sociology. The Chair of the Sociology MGMP, Siti Munawarah, S.Pd., M.Pd., emphasized the importance of this opportunity for teachers to discuss and delve into the material interactively. 

The first session was delivered by Sociology Study Program lecturer Hendrikus Ivoni Bambang Prasetyo, S.Sos., M.Si., who discussed “The Application of Social Research Methods in Sociology Learning at the High School Level.” Hendrikus reminded the audience of the importance of social research as the basis for learning and invited teachers to overcome teaching burnout with a fresher and more critical approach. He also explained the differences between quantitative and qualitative methods and stimulated discussions related to learning strategies and curriculum synchronization. 

The second session was presented by Dr. Pardamean Daulay, S.Sos., M.Si., with the theme “Social Conflict in Virtual Communities: A Topic for Sociology in the Digital Era.” The discussion explored various forms of social conflict in the virtual world, such as cyberbullying and issues related to ethnicity, religion, and race (SARA), which impact students’ mental health. Pardamean emphasized the importance of digital literacy and the role of teachers and parents in guiding students to use technology wisely and find positive communities. 

The workshop was filled with the enthusiastic participation of teachers, with in-depth questions and discussions about relevant sociological theories and practices for today’s conditions. Additionally, the active involvement of UT Sociology students in supporting the smooth running of the event provided them with direct experience in applying their knowledge in the community. 

This workshop supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: 

• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Raising awareness of mental health issues due to cyberbullying and social conflict in the virtual world. 

• SDG 4 (Quality Education): Enhancing teacher competency in teaching sociology and applying social research methods. 

• SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): Focusing on digital literacy and the wise use of technology in line with the development of innovative digital education infrastructure. 

• SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): By understanding social conflict, especially in the virtual world, teachers and students are encouraged to build a more peaceful and inclusive society. 

This workshop is a strategic effort to strengthen teachers’ understanding of sociology and encourage its application in digital-era learning. The event not only improves the quality of education and teacher competency but also instills an awareness of the importance of digital literacy and students’ mental health. With continued synergy, this kind of activity can support the achievement of SDGs related to quality education, well-being, and a peaceful and inclusive society in Indonesia.