Module ANTH4138: Theory and Methods in Biological and Evolutionary Anthropology

Department: Anthropology

ANTH4138: Theory and Methods in Biological and Evolutionary Anthropology

Prerequisites

• ANTH 2031 - Methods and Analysis and EITHER ANTH 2071 - Our Place in Nature OR ANTH 2061 - Evolution, Variation and Adaptation

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• Cannot be taken with ANTH 4048 Methods in Anthropology, ANTH4108 Professional and Quantitative Skills in Anthropology

Aims

• To provide students with an advanced understanding of evolutionary theory based around lectures, group discussions and independent learning.
• To provide students with quantitative research skills. It will develop students' skills in statistical analysis using datasets from anthropological research. Students will learn a range of statistical techniques for use in their research. In addition, they will become proficient in the use of SPSS for statistical methods.

Content

• The history of evolutionary theory.
• Genetics and epigenetics.
• Adaptation and natural selection.
• Evolution and diversity.
• Macroevolution.
• New and advanced theories.
• Dealing with quantitative data.
• Organising data for analysis.
• Selecting an appropriate statistical test.
• Running statistical tests using SPSS.
• Interpreting and reporting statistical results.

Learning Outcomes

• Areas of debate and controversy in contemporary evolutionary theory.
• An understanding of a range of subject-specific quantitative methods used in Anthropology.

• Ability to synthesise, critically evaluate and present complex material relating to evolutionary theory.
• Ability to analyse, and present the results from, complex data.
• Students should be able to express themselves in writing clearly and concisely on technical topics.
• Students should be able to use computer software for analysis and presentation of data.
• Students should be able to carry out basic quantitative analysis and to represent data effectively.

• Students should be able to express themselves clearly and concisely on technical topics, and explain why particular issues are important and/or controversial, as well as become fluent at reading and understanding statistical reports.
• Statistical analysis: Students should be able to set out data for analysis and select appropriate statistical tests for testing their own, specific hypotheses.
• Information technology: Students should be able to use computer software (SPSS) for analysis and presentation of data.
• Data analysis: Students should be able to carry out qualitative analysis, and to represent data effectively.

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

• The module combines lectures and seminars in evolutionary theory. Lectures are used to underpin the core knowledge requirements of the programme, providing students with a sound conceptual and/or empirical base for further study, examples of how to apply theory to case studies and how methodologies and assumptions affect analyses. They also provide examples of advanced, independent and critical analyses and applied expertise. Group discussions and presentations in seminars provide an opportunity for students to read, synthesise and discuss recent primary references and major reviews within the full range of evolutionary anthropology.
• Lectures in statistical analysis provide students with a coherent review of the research skills and the relevant background to the datasets they will be asked to analyse.
• Practical elements in statistical analysis offer students the opportunity to implement specific quantitative methods under the supervision of a tutor. Students will be given guided step-by-step instruction in carrying out tasks on a computer; this will be followed by less guided, but still supervised, tasks which help consolidate students understanding of the skills and the relevance to anthropological research.
• Modes of Assessment:
• Feedback during practical statistical analysis sessions (formative) will provide students with immediate feedback on their progress and provide the opportunity for individual interaction with tutor. Formative feedback on evolutionary theory essay via a 750 word essay plan supports the summative assignment.
• Summative assessment is by means of an essay (evolutionary theory) that will assess all learning outcomes and a 3000 statistical analysis research project.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Formative assessment will be 750 word essay plan (Evolutionary Theory) and feedback in practical classes (Statistical Analysis)

■ 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