Faculty Syllabus

Course Overview

This course serves as a “capstone” for anthropology majors. It is designed to prepare you for further coursework at the university level. Students will pursue either a research or internship track in consultation with the instructor. All class meetings will be held on Zoom. Please check the schedule on Blackboard for specific dates and Zoom links.

Additionally, we will discuss ethical principles and conduct, critical reading of scholarly literature, how to write a Curriculum vitae, and discuss some current issues in anthropology. I am open to other topics that you may wish to explore regarding anthropological research, writing, employment, and graduate school.

During some class periods we will discuss a specific topic or issue. Other sessions we will engage in sharing and peer review of student research and internships. We will use the final two class periods for presentations; all are required to participate both as presenter and as audience.

Students choose either a research or internship track.

The research track emphasizes written and verbal skill development by writing a scholarly research paper and presenting findings.

The internship track emphasizes improving or gaining new skills working with an organization as well as presenting findings in class. Students must dedicate a minimum of 50 hours to the internship.

Students select readings appropriate to their research/track in consultation with the instructor.

All other readings will be provided electronically on Blackboard at no cost to students; students can print at their own expense.

What to Expect from This Class
Over the next 16 weeks, we will focus on developing essential skills to prepare you for success in a four-year anthropology program and beyond. Success at university hinges on several key abilities, including:
• Strong Communication Skills: Both written and verbal communication, as well as effective presentation techniques.
• Critical Thinking: Analyzing and evaluating information to form well-reasoned conclusions.
• Collaboration: Working productively with peers in group settings.
• Adaptability: Navigating ambiguity with confidence and resourcefulness.
• Creative and Analytical Reasoning: Applying thoughtful and innovative approaches to problem-solving.
Activities and Expectations
In this class, you will:
• Participate actively in class discussions to exchange ideas and build critical insights.
• Engage in peer reviews to provide and receive constructive feedback on student work.
• Prepare a Curriculum vitae that highlights your academic achievements, skills, relevant coursework, fieldwork, internships, and other experiences that demonstrate your qualifications and interests in anthropology.
• Complete a scholarly paper or undertake an internship, depending on your chosen path.
• Present your final work to the class, showcasing your learning and achievements.

Students choose their own topics to explore from the various subdisciplines of anthropology including Applied anthropology, Archaeology, Biological/Physical Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, and Linguistics.

Students who complete this course will be able to:

• Select, cite, and reference relevant anthropological literature
• Evaluate competing anthropological modes and theories
• Write a research paper based on original scholarly research or participate in an internship for 50 hours
• Work independently and with the support of colleagues
• Practice peer review with colleagues
• Evaluate and apply anthropological ethics

Internship track learning outcomes:

• Record a journal of their experience during the service learning experience.
• Apply the knowledge gained by coursework to the real world, through service learning.
• Relate their service learning experience to their coursework in anthropology and other disciplines.