Anthropological Fieldwork and Methods #2

This set of flashcards contains key vocabulary and concepts related to anthropological fieldwork and methods.

Anthropology

The study of humanity, encompassing history, culture, and social structures.

Fieldwork

On-location research conducted by anthropologists over extended periods of time.

Subfield

A specialized area within a broader field of study, such as cultural or biological anthropology.

Ethnography

A qualitative research method focused on studying living cultures through observation and participation.

Archaeology

The study of past cultures through their material remains.

Material Observation

The observation of physical settings in both ethnographic and archaeological research.

Biological Observation

The study of living and past species, focusing on individuals and populations.

Behavioral Observation

The observation of behaviors in human and primate contexts.

Direct Communication

Two-way exchange of information, primarily used in ethnographic research.

Participant Observation

An immersive research technique where the anthropologist engages with the community being studied.

Emic Perspective

The internal viewpoint of a culture, focusing on local beliefs and values.

Etic Perspective

The external viewpoint of an outsider, such as an ethnographer interpreting a culture.

Cultural Relativism

The concept of understanding another culture through its own context, without imposing outside judgments.

Key Informants

Individuals with specialized knowledge about a culture, providing insights during research.

Life Histories

Personal narratives collected to understand cultural experiences and contexts.

Genealogical Methods

Techniques used to create kinship charts and understand familial relationships within a culture.

Informed Consent

The process of obtaining agreement from research participants after disclosing the purpose and risks of the study.

Ethical Research

Research conducted with consideration of the rights and well-being of study participants.

Systematic Survey

A method used in archaeology to locate cultural sites for excavation.

Excavation

The careful and systematic digging to recover and record archaeological artifacts.

Cultural Anthropology

A subfield of anthropology focused on understanding contemporary cultures and societies.

Biological Anthropology

A subfield concerning the biological aspects of humans and our ancestors.

Applied Anthropology

The practical application of anthropological knowledge to solve real-world issues.

Academic Anthropology

Anthropological work conducted in universities and research institutions, often focused on theoretical questions.

Practicing Anthropology

Work that applies anthropological methods and knowledge in various sectors, including government and NGOs.

Cultural Resource Management

A practice within anthropology that involves managing and preserving cultural heritage sites.

Research Ethics

Standards and guidelines that govern the conduct of research in anthropology.