Field Study Seminar

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Taught as ANTH 3500 "Field Study Seminar' at host institution. This course prepares students to learn effectively in a field-based, cross-cultural environment and offers specific techniques that students will need to complete their Independent Study Projects. Field study in the host country is placed in its appropriate cultural context, with emphasis placed on methods of research that are appropriate for local realities and dynamics. Varied techniques for gathering, recording, interpreting, and analyzing information from primary sources are studied through class-based and field exercises, work journal assignments, observations, and interviews. Ethics in the context of fieldwork with human subjects is also discussed. MAJOR COURSE OBJECTIVES: 1) To provide students with the necessary skills for adapting to, learning from, and understanding another culture; 2) To become familiar with the standard methodologies used in the social sciences, including in-depth interviewing, participant and nonparticipant observation, questionnaire development, and basic surveys required for successful field study; 3) To develop an understanding of appropriate methodologies used to increase learning and complete a successful practicum utilizing the unique human and physical resources available in Uganda.