ABSTRACT
The approach to the teaching of sociology developed can be seen as depending on the conceptual tools, the sociological imagination and the restricted case study. C. Wright Mills developed the concept of the sociological imagination as a broad purpose and direction for sociology. The idea of restricted case study has a quite different origin. It derives from the practice of advanced teacher education. This tradition has developed within the context of professional training. The chapter describes its main features and relationship to the sociological imagination within the context of some of the courses with which the authors have a shared experience. The tutor brings a knowledge of social science literature, research methods and a practical involvement in education. Professional development within education needs rigorous critical examinations of what actually takes place in our schools as opposed to what is initially perceived as taking place.
