While sociological learning and teaching is still dominated by the word, students are increasingly immersed in visual culture. Audio-visuals can be extremely powerful in their ability to communicate complex messages about the world and are growing in importance as a means of informing public debate. Recent developments in technology equip anyone with access to a computer or smartphone with the means to make a film. Getting students to make a short film seemed a way to cater to diverse skill sets and interests and facilitate authentic learning while simultaneously engaging students in a form of public sociology. This article examines Sociomentary, a recently developed undergraduate unit which, underpinned by critical media pedagogy, involved students in a new form of sociological knowledge production. It contributes to the collective effort of academics teaching sociology to find ways to engage students more deeply and assist them in engaging the world.
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