Module HUSS3381: ENVIRONMENTAL ANTHROPOLOGY FOR RETURNING ERASMUS STUDENTS

Department: Anthropology (Human Sciences) [Queen's Campus, Stockton]

HUSS3381: ENVIRONMENTAL ANTHROPOLOGY FOR RETURNING ERASMUS STUDENTS

Pre-requisites

Corequisites

Excluded Combinations

Aims

• This module is intended to build on key skills developed at Levels 1 and 2 (especially in communication skills, working with others and problem solving).
• It will encourage students to explore and better understand a number of concepts in anthropology, including cultural categories, natural resource use, environmental perception, environmental change, human-animal relations, cultural landscapes, belonging and place.
• It will also provide a framework for the investigation of important contemporary issues.

Content

• For returning Erasmus students the module will comprise 6 lectures, 3 classes, 2 special tutorials and a full day field trip.
• The students will be provided with a set of readings to take abroad with them.
• The readings given to the Erasmus students will include extra items in addition to the readings given to the non-Erasmus students.
• These readings will include material that is covered in lectures that the students will not be able to attend during the Michaelmas term.
• Students will also be given the full course handout including an extensive reading list.
• Students will be asked to obtain one of a number of selected titles to take abroad with them.
• They will write a review of this book as part of the summative assessment for the module.
• The set of readings will provide the necessary background to enable them to produce the book review.
• The subject matter will consist of an introduction to the kind of environmental themes that lend themselves to treatment by anthropologies.
• The content will include readings, relating to research carried out in a range of different contexts across the globe.
• It will also provide students with an opportunity to carry out research into a chosen aspect of environmental anthropology.

Learning Outcomes

• Knowledge and understanding of fundamental anthropological principles, concepts, theories, definitions and methods in relation to Environmental Anthropology.
• Knowledge of ethnographic literature from a range of location relating to Environmental Anthropology.
• Ability to see local cultures in relation to globilising processes and their environmental/ecological impacts.

• Analyse and evaluate (critically and independently) anthropological literature and related social thought pertaining to environmental issues.
• Pursue independent research in environmental anthropology by reaching judgements on the basis of evaluating data, evidence and ideas.
• Familiarity with the technical vocability and theoretical perspectives of environmental anthropology.

• Communicate ideas, principles, theories, problems and solutions through oral and written materials.
• Solve problems by indentifying, analysing and interpreting materials using appropriate anthropological knowledge and skills.
• Plan, organise and manage the research and writing of a report.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Themes will be introduced using a range of learning strategies including, lectures, videos, audio tapes, exercises and seminars based on prescribed reading.
• Discussions that will encourage them to monitor current affairs in relation to environmental issues.
• They will be provided with a set of class readings.
• A field trip will form part of the teaching and learning schedule.
• The assessment will direct the student towards a better understanding of a particular theoretical approach through an essay, while ways in which theory relates to concrete examples will be approached through a case study.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment

Each student will: (a) write an essay plan with provisional bibliography - 800 words. (b) write a project plan with full bibliography - 1000 words.