Description

Why do anthropologists compare and measure things? How do anthropologists gather evidence, and what is the value of the knowledge they produce?...

Description

Why do anthropologists compare and measure things? How do anthropologists gather evidence, and what is the value of the knowledge they produce? This module explores some of the major concepts and philosophies that underpin qualitative and quantitative methods used by anthropologists. It examines how to apply methods and other relevant research skills in practice and investigates how anthropologists analyse different forms of data to make arguments and produce knowledge about the social and biological diversity of humans. You will also reflect on the ethical and political dynamics that inform different kinds of anthropological research.  In term 1, students participate in seminars to explore the conceptual and practical dimensions of different methodologies and consider how particular methods yield certain kinds of data for anthropological analysis. In term 2, in addition to methods seminars, students will complete peer project work under the supervision of the module tutors in which students design and carry out a research project that tests in practice the different aspects of methods and research skills explored in the module.  



*Learning Outcomes: 


 Develop knowledge of different examples of qualitative and quantitative methods used by social scientists;   
 
 
 Expose students to a selection of key methodological concepts, practices and modes of analysis used across the discipline of anthropology;  
 

 Equip students with the ability to analyse and critically reflect on different modes of anthropological research and methodological practice;  
 
 
 Develop research and writing skills appropriate to the completion of an undergraduate level dissertation;  
 
 
 Develop transferable skills and especially key techniques in social science research that can be deployed across a range of employment contexts