Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

None

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

This module introduces students to anthropology which is the study of human diversity and sameness. The module explores the amazingly varied ways that people across the world live, think and relate to one another, as well as the question of what is shared in the experience of being human. The module introduces students to the practice of ethnography - the direct, in-depth study of ways of life - which is at the heart of anthropology.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module explores foundational themes of anthropology. Each theme will be explored through a range of learning activities. There will be 'out and about' workshops and assessment focus workshops. Students may also have the opportunity to take part in a virtual exchange with anthropology students from IUPUI (Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis), a university in Midwestern United States (depending on availability).

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

By the end of the module the successful student will be able to:
1. Describe key features of the academic discipline of anthropology.
2. Define and discuss some core concepts in anthropology. Evaluate some key debates concerning these concepts.
3. Compare and contrast a range of cross-cultural ethnographic case studies.
4. Demonstrate understanding of the fieldwork process.

Intended Skill Outcomes

By the end of the module the successful student will be able to:
1.       Demonstrate critical thinking about the world around them and about cultural diversity.
2.       Gather ethnographic data and demonstrate observational skills.
3.       Apply concepts and academic ideas to ethnographic evidence.
4.       Read and understand key module texts critically and analytically.
5.       Practice ethnographic writing skills.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Teaching is in five ‘blocks’. Introduction, overview and understanding of the topic are built through PIP whole group sessions, asynchronous mini-lectures and ethnographic films. Active knowledge and understanding of the topics are developed and deepened through PIP small group guided reading sessions and activity sessions, and asynchronous worksheets. Learning is further bolstered by two 'out and about' workshops. Two additional PIP workshops will be focused on assessment.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Portfolio is comprised of three elements, Parts 1, 2 and 3.

Part 1 is a field diary: To enable skills development in ethnographic methods and writing, and in relating academic concepts to empirical information, students are invited to submit up to six fieldwork diary entries on set topics which they are encouraged to write over the course of the first semester. They will receive written feedback on three entries included in the portfolio (IKO4, ISO2 and 5).

Part 2 is an ethnographic essay which gives students the choice of engaging with one of the themes explored in the module in more depth, analysing their ethnographic data and utilising sources from the module to evidence and inform their claims in an essay-type format (IKO1 – 3, ISO 1,3,4,5).

Part 3 is a report which will evidence engagement with the virtual exchange with peers from an anthropology module at IUPUI (Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis). This enables students to build a shared ethnographic fieldwork experience together. Via a virtual platform, they will have the chance to work with each other to think like anthropologists about the cultural differences, and similarities between life at an American and a British university in 2020-21 (IKO3-4, ISO1,2,3,5). An alternative for students not wishing to take part in the virtual exchange is a photo essay (IK01, IS01).

General Notes

N/A