Anthropologists and sociologists conduct scientific research to develop understanding about people’s experience in their culture and society. This research is field-based in that it is not conducted in a laboratory. Often anthropological and sociological research is conducted about problems that exist in the world. This course introduces qualitative research methods, ethnography, ethics, and research design. We will explore and practice ethnographic research techniques, as well as other qualitative research methods. Additionally, we will discuss topics such as developing questions, entering the field, establishing rapport, taking and managing field notes, coding data, and data analysis. Lectures, readings, and class discussion will be complemented by assignments using these techniques. This class seeks to give students of any major a solid foundation for conducting real world research project using ethnographic and qualitative methods.

Prerequisite: one of SOAN 110, 111, 117 or SJ 110.