Undergraduate Module Descriptor

ANT2005: Current Debates in Anthropology: Practice

This module descriptor refers to the 2020/1 academic year.

Module Aims

The primary aim of the module is to further build on your existing knowledge of anthropological theory, and introduce you to a body of concepts and approaches developed by practitioners of this dynamic subject in response to conducting fieldwork in a changing world. The module also aims to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to enable you to understand and evaluate the differing views expressed by established anthropologists in relation to key theoretical debates. Through constructive seminar discussions they will be also be empowered to feel confident in utilising anthropological theory as a tool for analysing your own research.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. display knowledge of specific theoretical concepts and methodological approaches in anthropology and the intellectual debates concerning them;
2. display awareness of, and sensitivity to, human diversity, and a reflexive appreciation of its scope and complexity;
3. evaluate the ethical implications of anthropological research in relation to a selection of ethnographic case studies and in relation to the Association of Social Anthropologists' Ethical Guidelines for Good Research Practice;
Discipline-Specific Skills4. demonstrate a competence in using major theoretical perspectives and concepts in anthropology via the application of appropriate theoretical models in the analysis of ethnographic case studies;
5. demonstrate a recognition of the politics of language, indirect forms of communication, forms of power, theoretical statements and claims of authority, and an ability to analyse them;
6. plan, undertake and present scholarly work that shows an understanding of anthropological aims, methods and theoretical considerations;
Personal and Key Skills7. express your own ideas in writing, summarize the arguments of others, and distinguish between the two;
8. engage in constructive discussion in group situations; and
9. evaluate your strengths and weaknesses in learning and study skills and to take action to improve your capacity to learn.