Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2016-2017 (archived)

Module ANTH1081: Introduction to Anthropological Theories and Methods

Department: Anthropology

ANTH1081: Introduction to Anthropological Theories and Methods

Type Tied Level 1 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2016/17 Module Cap Location Durham
Tied to L602
Tied to LF64
Tied to LL36
Tied to L606
Tied to B991
Tied to L601
Tied to L605
Tied to L607

Prerequisites

Corequisites

  • <If other modules, please enter module code using 'Right Click, Insert module_code' or enter module title>

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • The equivalent HUSS module

Aims

  • To introduce students to the history of the discipline
  • To introduce students to the major theoretical developments of the discipline
  • To introduce students to basic methods of research and scholarship in anthropology

Content

  • History of the major theoretical schools of anthropology from the 19th Century
  • History of the dominant methods used in cultural and physical anthropology since the 19th century

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Have an understanding of how the discipline has developed since the 19th century
  • Be familiar with a broad range of anthropological theories and methods.
  • Be familiar with relevant anthropological research from one or more regions of the world that provides useful illustrative material to apply to the understanding of more general theory.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Critically and comparatively analsye and evaluate anthropological approaches.
  • Apply subject related knowledge from the course to the evaluation of an anthropological issue.
  • Develop the ability to pursue independent research in anthropology and related fields.
Key Skills:
  • Apply IT research techniques to specific problems
  • Learn E-resource management skills, including reference management software and repository interrogation
  • Communicate arguments and evidence through written work
  • Plan organise and manage time to meet deadlines.
  • Show initiative to independantly find resources on their chosen assessment topics to independantly apply to the evaluation of theory.
  • Be computer literate to produce word processed material, manage and access data.

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

  • The formal components of the module employ a range of teaching methods to provide an integrated framework to contribute to the intended learning outcomes outlined above
  • Practical classes will provide students with the opportunity to develop key skills in science and scholarship.
  • The independent project will test applied knowledge relevant to the subject material
  • The written exam will test a deeper understanding of the issues relevant to the subject material

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 22 Weekly 1 hour 22
Practicals/Seminars 8 Distributed to support specific teaching needs throughout the academic year 1 hour 8
Independent preparation and reading 170

Summative Assessment

Component: Exam Component Weighting: 30%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Unseen Exam 90 minutes 100% Yes
Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 70%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Independent Project 2000 words 100% Yes

Formative Assessment:

1 X Project write up outline 1 X Revision seminar in preparation for exam which will include brief oral revision guidance and a short written mock exam which will be peer marked in class.


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