It incorporates a hands-on approach using the resources of USD's David W. May Indian Artifacts Collection. Field trips to local museums are a requisite of the course. A survey of the historical patterns, Twentieth Century trends, and new initiatives that characterize our understanding of Anthropology today. This course takes a critical and holistic look at what is relevant about Anthropology in an increasingly global society where a diversity of views and of cross-cultural scenarios challenge each citizen and each institution to interact constructively. No library work required.
Student initiates individual field research projects using ethnographic techniques.
An introduction to the uses and content of photographic media in anthropology and a survey of non-Western cultures through ethnographic films. Students learn to evaluate ethnographic films as anthropological 'texts' and broaden their perspective of human lifeways and contemporary issues. Students in this course will learn to communicate effectively in various formats following guidelines established by the American Anthropological Association, American Association of Museums, and funding agencies such as the National Science Foundation. Students will be able to present a paper or a poster at USD's annual Undergraduate Student Research and Internship Conference. An examination of theories of cultural contact, cultural change, and assimilation as they apply to the record of European contact with Pacific cultures, starting with Magellan and continuing through the present.