MB560/660/760/860: Methods of
Observing and Interpreting Culture (4 units)
R. Daniel Shaw, Professor of
Anthropology and Translation
Fall 2006 Pasadena
DESCRIPTION:
This
course is designed to help cross cultural leaders use and apply social science
research methods to the collection of data that can then be analyzed for
effective application to intercultural relationships. Particular emphasis is
placed on participant observation, ethnographic interviews, focus groups, and
case studies including life histories. Techniques for recording and processing
data and establishing rapport will be discussed. The emphasis in this course is
on collecting qualitative data, not on analysis of that data per se.
Application of these methods should enable students to more accurately
understand a cultural context and thereby enable them to make wise missional
decisions. This methods course is designed for those doing masters or doctoral
research. The term project can be specifically designed to fit the methodology
and research needs of a thesis or dissertation.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Ÿ Appreciate the
difference between the four primary methods and when each is best utilized in
research.
Ÿ Be able to apply at
least one of these methods to a particular research context.
Ÿ Understand the
contribution each method can make for effective data collection.
COURSE FORMAT: The course will meet once
per week for three hours in a lecture/discussion format. Reading, class
discussion and use of a method for collecting data in a research context will
provide the framework for learning.
REQUIRED
READING: If you have previously read
any of the required texts, please select an alternative text from the
recommended reading list or a book approved by the instructor.
Bernard,
H. R. Research Methods in Cultural
Anthropology, 2005, Altimira (or latest edition).
Students will choose one of the following books from the SAGE Applied Social
Research Methods Series:
Fetterman,
Ethnography Step by Step, 1989 OR
latest edition (same for all below).
Jorgensen,
Participant Observation, 1989.
Stewart/Shamdasani,
Focus Groups, 1990.
Yin, Case Study Research, 1989.
Students will choose two books
from the SAGE Qualitative Research Methods Series. The objective is to
understand principles adjunct to the primary methodology chosen. Consult the
materials handed out at the first meeting of the class. BOOKS MUST BE ORDERED
BY THE STUDENT OR AT 2nd MEETING OF THE CLASS!
RECOMMENDED READING:
McKinney, C. Globe Trotting in Sandals, SIL International Bookstore, Dallas
1999.
Maxwell, J. Qualitative Research Design.
2nd Edition. SAGE, Applied Social Research Methods Series, Vol. 41, 2005.
ASSIGNMENTS:
• Readings
as assigned in class. Students will do a research project based on utilizing
their choice of a particular methodology. Students will make a presentation and
turn in a final paper based on their research methodology and data collection.
• Th.M
students: Add a 500-word paper indicating how this course content fits into the
conceptualization, research and writing for the project/thesis.
• Doctoral
Students: This course is often used by doctoral students as a methods course
for their doctoral research. Doctoral students will be expected to critique the
theoretical structures and evaluate them for application and/or relevance to
their dissertation topic. An addendum to the methods section of their research
design paper will be added to the written assignments for this course. They
will make a classroom presentation relating their chosen method to their
particular research focus, showing the theoretical rationale, and missional
implications to their particular research.
PREREQUISITES: None.
MB500 or MB520 preferred. If MB500 or MB520 are not yet completed,
see professor for pre-reading assignment.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets
requirements for a methods course in the Doctoral Program and research methods
requirement in the MAICS and Th.M. program in the SIS.
FINAL
EXAM: None.