Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2017 - SA 356W D100

Ethnography and Qualitative Methods (SA) (4)

Class Number: 4745

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 4 – Apr 7, 2017: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    SA 255.

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:

This course explores a diversity of ethnographic & qualitative research methods used by sociologists & anthropologists. Through the use of a variety of recent and historical publications, in addition to a core course text, this course will touch on the theories & practical elements of various qualitative methods, & foster students’ ability to compare & contrast methods. Additionally, through Research Portfolios students will gain practical skills with four different qualitative research methods. This course also examines motivation, benefits, detriments, politics of representation, & other ethical issues related to the use of ethnography & qualitative methods.  

Grading

  • Participation 18.5%
  • Mini Assignments (5 x 1.5%) 7.5%
  • Research Portfolio 74%
  •  Autoethnography, Participant Observation, Interview, Focus Group (4 x 13.5%) 54%
  •  Literature Review 10%
  •  Critical Review 10%

NOTES:

Where a final exam is scheduled and you do not write the exam or withdraw from the course before the deadline date, you will be assigned an N grade. Unless otherwise specified on the course outline, all other graded assignments in this course must be completed for a final grade other than N to be assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

The Department of Sociology and Anthropology follows SFU policy in relation to grading practices, grade appeals (Policy T 20.01) and academic dishonesty and misconduct procedures (S10.01‐ S10.04).  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: http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student.html.    

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Tracy, Sarah J. 2013. Qualitative Research Methods: Collecting Evidence, Crafting Analysis, Communicating Impact. Wiley-Blackwell. Additional readings available online through the SFU library.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS