AN298 Half Unit
Research Methods in Social Anthropology
This information is for the 2021/22 session.
Teacher responsible
Dr Yazan Doughan
Availability
This course is compulsory on the BA in Social Anthropology, BSc in Social Anthropology and Exchange Programme for Students in Anthropology (Melbourne). This course is available on the BA in Anthropology and Law, Exchange Programme for Students in Anthropology (Cape Town), Exchange Programme for Students in Anthropology (Fudan) and Exchange Programme for Students in Anthropology (Tokyo). This course is not available as an outside option nor to General Course students.
Course content
The aim of this course is to guide and support students as they identify, execute and write-up their own ethnographic project. In parallel with their research activities, students will develop research skills for the collection, analysis and representation of ethnographic data. The course will provide training in ethnographic observation, participation, listening, questioning, interviewing, analysing and writing. One session will be dedicated to discussing a range of ethical dilemmas that may emerge during the course of ethnographic research.
Students will demonstrate their research skills by applying them to the research questions pursued in their ethnographic project. They will write a 4,500 to 5,000- word essay reporting on their research activities and findings.
Teaching
1 hour of lectures in the MT. 20 hours of seminars in the LT.
This year, some or all of this teaching may be delivered through a combination of virtual lectures, classes and online interactive activities. The contact hours listed above are the minimum expected. This course has a reading week in Week 6 of LT.
Formative coursework
A short description of the student’s proposed research project will be discussed in LT week 1 in a student-led workshop. Students will then produce a 1000-word report due between weeks 5 and 7, describing the progress made on the research, including a sample ethnographic description and an explanation of the methods used to date. Students will receive feedback on the report within two weeks of submission.
Indicative reading
Amit, Vered. Constructing the Field: Ethnographic Fieldwork in the Contemporary World (2003); DeWalt, K.M. & DeWalt, B.M Participant Observation: A guide for fieldworkers (2010); Bernard. H.R. Research Methods in Anthropology, 5th edition (2011).
Assessment
Essay (100%, 5000 words) in the ST.
Course selection videos
Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.
Important information in response to COVID-19
Please note that during 2021/22 academic year some variation to teaching and learning activities may be required to respond to changes in public health advice and/or to account for the differing needs of students in attendance on campus and those who might be studying online. For example, this may involve changes to the mode of teaching delivery and/or the format or weighting of assessments. Changes will only be made if required and students will be notified about any changes to teaching or assessment plans at the earliest opportunity.
Key facts
Department: Anthropology
Total students 2020/21: 41
Average class size 2020/21: 11
Capped 2020/21: Yes (60)
Value: Half Unit
Personal development skills
- Self-management
- Team working
- Problem solving
- Application of information skills
- Communication
- Specialist skills
