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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2014 - 2015

Module Title Introduction to Anthropology
Module Code NS127
School School of Nursing and Human Sciences

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorDr Sabina StanOffice NumberH257A
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The module aims to introduce students to basic concepts and themes in anthropology with a view of developing a critical perspective on the challenges currently faced by humans in contemporary societies. It will tackle subjects under the rubrics of culture, language, environment and subsistence, power and politics, kinship and family, religion and worldview, and globalisation. By using illustrations from ground level studies of the day-to-day experience of people in both western and non-western countries, the module will endeavour to provide students with a fresh and stimulating perspective on contemporary transformations in Ireland and beyond.

Learning Outcomes

1. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key terms, ideas and concepts in anthropology, of a range of appropriately identified ethnographic materials, of specified themes in social and cultural organization, and of patterns and processes of change in society and culture.
2. recognize key anthropological concepts in unfamiliar anthropological materials, recognize and analyse the viewpoint of the anthropologist/position of the observer in anthropological materials, use ethnographic examples and anthropological concepts to formulate an argument



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24No Description
Independent Study101No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Culture

Language

Kinship

Race and ethnicity

Gender differences

Economy and inequality

Politics and order

Religion, magic and ritual

Globalisation

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment50% Examination Weight50%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Lavenda, Robert and Emily A. Schultz: 2006, Core Concepts in Cultural Anthropology, McGraw-Hill Higher Education,
  • Spradley, James and David W. McCurdy: 2002, Conformity and Conflict: Readings in Cultural Anthropology., Pearson Education,
  • Herzfeld, M.: 2001, Anthropology. Theoretical Practice in Culture and Society, Wiley-Blackwell,
  • Wilson, T. and H. Donnan: 2006, The Anthropology of Ireland, Berg, Oxford,
  • Kottak, C. Ph.: 2009, Mirror for Humanity: A Concise Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, McGraw-Hill Higher Education, Boston,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
BPYBSc (Honours) in Psychology
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