AN 201 - Introduction to Anthropology

1. Identify the range of theories, methods, and research interests that are employed by the four sub-fields of Anthropology
2. Understand the concepts of cultural relativism and ethnocentrism and understand the implications for living in a global society (GELO 4)
3. Articulate how the four sub-fields contribute to a holistic study of humankind
4. Explain how anthropological theory and knowledge addresses the philosophical question “What does it mean to be human?” from both biological and cultural perspectives
5. Describe the general trajectory of human biological and cultural development while challenging ethnocentric ideas of “unilineal progress” (GELO 3)
6. Explain how anthropological method and theory can be applied to dealing with contemporary global issues
7.  Apply social and human behavioral theory to understand alternative interpersonal or cultural perspectives through the application of cultural relativism as a methodological tool (GELO 4)
8. Comprehend how changing social conditions affect the behavior of individuals, the operation of societal institutions and/or the perception of social phenomena by understanding how culture operates as an integrated system (GELO 3)

1. What is Anthropology?
2. What is Culture?
3. Anthropological Research Method and Theory

II.  What does it mean to be human?

1. Biological and Cultural Origins of Humans
2. Cultural Patterns during the Paleolithic and Mesolithic

III.  What is the meaning of progress?

1. The Origins of Agriculture
2. Bioarchaeology of the Neolithic
3. Changing social life during the Neolithic
4. The Emergence of States

IV.  Applying Anthropological Knowledge to Contemporary Issues

1. Social Construction of Race and Ethnicity
2. Global Poverty and Development
3. Applied Anthropology and Globalization

Facilitated Classroom Discussions: 15-20%

Collaborative Classroom Activities: 20-25%

Individual Writing Assignments emphasizing crticial thinking and cultural competence: 10-15%

Classroom based activities that provides for either the application of anthropological theory or demonstrated methods related to the collection of data.

1. Essential judgment skills to include: ability to identify, assess, and comprehend different cultural viewpoints for the purpose of problem solving around cross-cultural issues and the application of anthropological theories for recognizing appropriate conclusions and/or course of actions.
2. Essential physical/neurological functions to include: ability to use the senses of seeing, hearing, and touch to make correct judgments regarding course material. Behaviors that demonstrate essential neurological and physical functions include, but are not limited to observation, listening, understanding relationships, writing, and psychomotor abilities consistent with course expectations. For example, anthropology courses employ the replication, use, and physical manipulation of material cultural artifacts related to human cultures. Likewise, anthropology courses utilize game based simulations to help students understand the operation of different cultural systems, which require physical movement around the classroom and interactions with other students.
3. Essential communication skills to include: ability to communicate effectively with fellow students and faculty. Skills include verbal, written, and nonverbal abilities as well as information technology skills consistent with effective communication.
4. Essential emotional coping skills: ability to manage potential stressors that accompany tasks necessary to safely engage in the application of anthropological theory and the discussion of relevant topics. It is expected that students will have divergent opinions regarding cross-cultural perspectives and contemporary global issues. Students are expected to be able to discuss these potentially powerful topics in an objective, civil and respectful manner.  Some of the topics addressed in Anthropology courses include, but is not limited to: Violence [including ethnic and sex-based violence (i.e. rape, female infanticide, and genocide)], Sexuality, Gender, Race, Class, Religion, Politics, Ethnicity and Identity. These essential emotional and coping skills will take place on many different levels, including one to one interactions with peers and faculty, small group interactions, and whole class discussions.
5. Essential intellectual/conceptual skills to include: Anthropology courses require the application of anthropological methods and theories to the collection, synthesis, and analysis of both qualitative and quantitative information and the ability to discern between objective and subjective perspectives. In addition, anthropology courses require the ability to apply anthropological methods and theories to explore and understand different cultural perspectives. To accomplish these tasks the ability to measure, calculate, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate relevant course information is necessary.
6. Other essential behavioral attributes: The student must demonstrate responsibility and accountability for actions as a student in the study of Anthropology. This includes adherence to ethical guidelines governing the practice anthropology and adherence to all aspects of the GRCC student code of conduct.