Module HUSS1181: BIOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL ORIGINS

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

HUSS1181: BIOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL ORIGINS

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To introduce students to the concepts of humans as animals, mammals and primates, basic evolutionary theory, the principles of human evolution and the origins of modern humans and the development of human social life.

Content

• In the first term we will examine humans as part of the biological world, particularly emphasising our animal heritage.
• We will contrast social behaviour and life in complex social groupings between ourselves and our non-human primate relatives.
• The basic concepts of evolution and the theory of natural selection will be investigated.
• We will begin to examine the fossil evidence of our ancestors and the adaptations particular to human evolution.
• In the second term we will continue the programme of discovering human evolution through the fossil record, moving towards the evolution of social/cultural aspects of human life, e.g. subsistence strategies, technology, language and ritual.

Learning Outcomes

• Knowledge of comparative anatomy.
• Appreciation of the position of humans in the biological world and their taxonomic heritage.
• Understanding of the principles and mechanisms of evolution.
• Awareness of the origins and evolution of humans.
• Appreciation of the bases of human social life and the development of cultural patterns.
• Understanding of the evidence for human evolution as provided by the archaeological record.
• Familiarity with past and current debates surrounding the biological and social evolution of humans

• Familiarity with basic techniques used in the study of primate, hominid and human skeletal material.
• Modes of collection and interpretation of anatomical and paleoanthropological data.
• Ability to locate relevant material, both electronic and other, which will further understanding of key concepts in evolutionary anthropology.

• Competence in lab work.
• Ability to communicate in writing.
• Ability to analyse practical findings.
• Ability to conduct library research on a given subject using print and electronic resources.
• Proficiency in time management.

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

• Lectures will provide students with the factual knowledge they require to understand key Biological Anthropological issues at an introductory level.
• Students will gain ‘hands on’ experience of identifying specimens (including cranial and post cranial material) duirng practical classes.
• Practical classes will also provide students with plenty of opportunty to discuss issues raised during lectures in greater depth.
• The module DUO site will serve to ensure that students can find the information about the module they require at any time.
• The summative essay and exam will assess knowledge and analytical and communication skills; exam will also assess understanding of practical classes.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Practical worksheets on topics that will prepare students for exam questions, to be submitted end of Michaelmas and Epiphany Terms. Presentation / in-class dicussion of essay topic with verbal formative feedback. Oral feedback will be provided to studetns during practical classes.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University