Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - SA 356W D100

Ethnography and Qualitative Methods (SA) (4)

Class Number: 3263

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Cristina Moretti
    cmorett1@sfu.ca
    Office Hours: TBA via Zoom and in-person

  • Prerequisites:

    SA 101.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An examination of qualitative field methods, including participant observation, interviewing, archival research, cross-cultural research, life histories, network analysis, mapping, and ethical problems of fieldwork. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

When asked “Why ethnography?” Kirin Narayan replied: “For the discipline of paying attention; for learning from others; for becoming more responsibly aware of inequalities; for better understanding the social forces causing suffering and how people might somehow find hope; and most generally, for being perpetually pulled beyond the horizons of one’s own taken-for-granted world” (McGranahan, 2020: 12, describing her interview with Kirin Narayan).

In this course, we will study ethnography and qualitative research methodologies. Through research and writing exercises, class discussions, and small group work, we will investigate what is entailed in “paying attention” (ibid.) to people’s words, lives, concerns, and contexts; consider ethical issues in research; and engage with ethnographic writing.

There are three main aspects to the course. First, students will have the opportunity to practice several research methods including interviewing, participant observation, listening to life stories, and visual methods. Secondly, we will read and discuss ethnographic fieldnotes, texts, and articles from different anthropologists to learn about voice, representation, reflexivity, and the position of the researcher. This will also help us develop a critical appreciation of how ethnographers use various genres of writing in their work. Thirdly, students will gain an understanding of the necessary components of research, such as developing questions, selecting a site, ensuring ethical engagements, and analyzing research results.

SA356W is a reading and writing intensive course and students are expected to complete weekly readings prior to each class.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Students will be able to identify key aspects of ethnography.
  • Students will learn and practice several methods including participant observation, visual methods, interviews, as well as strategies for data analysis.
  • Students will identify and evaluate ethical questions and challenges; explain their choices and approach to ethics including the concepts of positionality, reflexivity, and research responsibilities.
  • Students will be able to start reflecting critically on research, colonialism, and decolonization.
  • Students will develop an understanding of and appreciation of different kinds of writing that are part of ethnographic practice.
  • Students will practice different kinds of ethnographic writing.
  • Students will be able to formulate a research question of their interest and craft a research plan.

Grading

  • Research exercises 45%
  • Reading responses 30%
  • Mini ethnography 20%
  • In class and online required activities 5%

NOTES:

Grading: Where a final exam is scheduled and the student does not write the exam or withdraws from the course before the deadline date, an N grade will be assigned. Unless otherwise specified on the course syllabus, all graded assignments for this course must be completed for a final grade other than N to be assigned. An N is considered as an F for the purposes of scholastic standing.

Grading System: The undergraduate course grading system is A+, A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D, F, N (N standing indicates student did not complete course requirements). Intervals for the assignment of final letter grades based on course percentage grades are as follows:

A+ (95-100) | A (90-94) | A- (85-89) | B+ (80-84) | B (75-79) | B- (70-74) | C+ (65-69) | C (60-64) | C- (55-59) | D (50-54) | F (0-49) | N*
*N standing to indicate the student did not complete course requirements

Academic Honesty and Student Conduct Policies: The Department of Sociology & Anthropology follows SFU policy in relation to grading practices, grade appeals (Policy T20.01), and academic honesty and student conduct procedures (S10‐S10.05). Unless otherwise informed by your instructor in writing, in graded written assignments you must cite the sources you rely on and include a bibliography/list of references, following an instructor-approved citation style. It is the responsibility of students to inform themselves of the content of SFU policies available on the SFU website.

Centre for Accessible Learning: Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need classroom or exam accommodations are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (1250 Maggie Benston Centre) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.

The Sociology and Anthropology Student Union, SASU, is a governing body of students who are engaged with the department and want to build the SA community. Get involved!  Follow Facebook and Instagram pages or visit our website.

 

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

All readings will be available through Canvas or the SFU library

 

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be available through Canvas or the SFU library

 


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.