SOC1027 : Comparing Cultures: An Introduction to Anthropology
SOC1027 : Comparing Cultures: An Introduction to Anthropology
- Offered for Year: 2025/26
- Module Leader(s): Dr Mwenza Blell
- Owning School: Geography, Politics & Sociology
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
None
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
None
Aims
This module introduces students to anthropology which is the study of human diversity and sameness. The module explores the amazingly varied ways that people across the world live, think and relate to one another, as well as the question of what is shared in the experience of being human. The module introduces students to the practice of ethnography - the direct, in-depth study of ways of life - which is at the heart of anthropology.
Outline Of Syllabus
The module explores foundational themes of anthropology. Each theme will be explored through a range of learning activities. There will be 'out and about' workshops and assessment focus workshops. Students may also have the opportunity to take part in a virtual exchange with anthropology students from IUPUI (Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis), a university in Midwestern United States (depending on availability).
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
By the end of the module the successful student will be able to:
1. Describe key features of the academic discipline of anthropology.
2. Define and discuss some core concepts in anthropology. Evaluate some key debates concerning these concepts.
3. Compare and contrast a range of cross-cultural ethnographic case studies.
4. Demonstrate understanding of the fieldwork process.
Intended Skill Outcomes
By the end of the module the successful student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate critical thinking about the world around them and about cultural diversity.
2. Gather ethnographic data and demonstrate observational skills.
3. Apply concepts and academic ideas to ethnographic evidence.
4. Read and understand key module texts critically and analytically.
5. Practice ethnographic writing skills.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 5 | 1:00 | 5:00 | Films. Non-Synchronous, non-timetabled remote delivery |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 7 | 1:00 | 7:00 | PIP timetabled whole group |
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 5 | 1:00 | 5:00 | Pre-recorded lectures |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 48:00 | 48:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Directed research and reading | 1 | 116:00 | 116:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 10 | 1:00 | 10:00 | PIP timetabled seminars |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Workshops | 2 | 1:30 | 3:00 | PIP timetabled whole group (assessment sessions) |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Workshops | 2 | 3:00 | 6:00 | PIP timetabled. Sessions will combine 'out and about' and classroom activities. |
| Total | 200:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
Teaching is in five ‘blocks’. Introduction, overview and understanding of the topic are built through PIP whole group sessions, asynchronous mini-lectures and ethnographic films. Active knowledge and understanding of the topics are developed and deepened through PIP small group guided reading sessions and activity sessions, and asynchronous worksheets. Learning is further bolstered by two 'out and about' workshops. Two additional PIP workshops will be focused on assessment.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 180 | 1 | A | 70 | 3 Hour open book exam |
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reflective log | 1 | M | 30 | N/A |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The assessment on this module is comprised of an unseen exam to be taken in exam period and a reflective log. The exam will permit students to reflect on and demonstrate their knowledge and skills developed in the module. The exam is unseen, but will be open book. Students will be permitted to bring any printed materials they wish to the exam. The reflective log is comprised of three Fieldwork diary entries on set topics relevant to the intended learning outcomes, and will serve as one of the resources that can be drawn on during the exam. Preparing for both will be supported by two dedicated assessment workshops during the semester.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- SOC1027's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- SOC1027's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
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Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2025 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, staffing changes, and student feedback. Module information for the 2026/27 entry will be published here in early-April 2026. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.