Type of course

Course content

To write a project description implies to identify research questions which are feasible and manageable within the limits of the fieldwork. It also implies clarifying how the research questions are related to existing literature. Regional ethnographic literature, social science literature addressing the topic of research, and social science theory in general should be used. The project description must also include a presentation of the methodological approach.

The course falls in two parts:

• A series of lectures will focus on ethnography, including what characterizes visual ethnography. These lectures will go more in-depth into theoretical and methodological questions introduced in the three previous courses (SVF-3101, 3102, and 3103). The lectures on visual ethnography emphasize the relationship between social scientific approaches and the use of audio-visual tools.
• A series of seminars where the students¿ project descriptions for the master research project are developed. During these seminars the students will learn how to write a project description. This is an individually made plan for the master project, which includes a synopsis for the master film. Developing this description will help the students to prepare for the research, but the description will also serve as a tool in the field. This means that the student will bring the description with him/her and regularly revise it as the research develops during fieldwork.

The students continue to follow the lectures given in SVF 3106 "Film as Practice-Led Research", but do not take the exam related to this course

Objectives of the course

Students who have successfully completed the course should have the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge:

• Be familiar with project development practices within the field of visual anthropology
• Have knowledge about the region and the themes related to their choice of final fieldwork

Analytical understanding:

• Understand how to relate research ambitions, theoretical approaches and empirical realities.
• Be able to formulate manageable and relevant hypotheses

Skills and competences:

• Be prepared to carry out fieldwork based mainly on qualitative research methods

Be able to demonstrate how students intend to pursue their objectives and research questions through the choices of informants and research settings.

Language of instruction and examination

Teaching methods

Consists of lectures (approx.12 hours) and seminars (approx.16 hours). The course runs for 6 weeks. Course attendance is compulsory, i.e. only valid absences will be approved. A minimum presence of 80 % is required.

Assessment

Project description for the master research project.

Grading is Pass/Fail. If failed it is possible to re-sit the examination in the spring semester.

Recommended reading/syllabus

300 pages.

A reading list of 300 pages will be presented at the beginning of the spring semester.