Unit information: Research Methods in Social Anthropology in 2009/10

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Unit name Research Methods in Social Anthropology
Unit code ANTHM0003
Credit points 40
Level of study M/7
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director Emeritus Professor. Saunders
Open unit status Not open
Pre-requisites

None.
Co-requisites

None.
School/department Department of Anthropology and Archaeology
Faculty Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This is a key part of the research methods component of the MA. It complements the theoretical unit, History and Theory in Social Anthropology, focusing on specifically anthropological techniques and practices. The unit is designed to provide students with the research skills required to carry out their dissertation research, and to equip them to undertake a research degree in social anthropology. We look at the development of fieldwork methods, fieldwork ethics, the production of ethnographic texts and media, museum and archival work, and research project planning. There is a strong practical component to the course, with museum field trips and advise on mattes such as recording techniques and transcription software. The unit is supported by Blackboard.

Aims:

  • To prepare students to carry out a sustained piece of research in social anthropology.
  • To make students aware of the ethical guidelines published by professional bodies.
  • To critically reflect on the experience of fieldwork and the relationship between ethnographic fieldwork and texts.

Intended Learning Outcomes

  • To understand the way that various types of ethnographic museum collections are managed.
  • To appreciate what is involved in archival research.
  • To discuss practical issues concerning time-management, the collection, security and use of data, recording techniques, physical health and safety issues in the field.
  • To look at issues and constraints surrounding publicly funded research, intellectual property rights, multi-disciplinary projects and applied research.

Teaching Information

20 two-hour sessions in weeks 1 -10 of TB1 and includes lectures, associates seminars and practical workshops.

Assessment Information

An essay of 5-6,000 words (85% of the mark) plus 1,000 word reflexivity exercise (15% of the total mark). In addition there are two formative coursework tasks including an account of the Exmoor Fieldtrip and an Interviewing Exercise.

Reading and References

  • AAA and ASA ethical guidelines (published on their web sites).
  • Behar, R. and Gordon, D. (eds.) (1995), Women Writing Culture, Univ. of California Press.
  • Clifford, J. (1988), The Predicament of Culture, Harvard University Press.
  • Gupta, A. and Ferguson, J. (eds.) (1997), Anthropological Locations, University of California Press.
  • Sanjek, R. (ed.) (1990), Field Notes, Cornell University Press.

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