Anthropology of Current World Issues from edX

This course will allow you to better understand the world around you through utilising the anthropological lens. You will learn about the way in which anthropology as a discipline can shed new perspectives on current world issues, from indigeneity to migration and material culture.

We want to challenge you to reflect on your own perspective when thinking about these issues, how you see the world and how we all engage with difference and sameness on a daily basis.

We will interview notable anthropologists and follow some around the world and into their field to explore the issues, the people they work with and their place in the world.

What you'll learn

The basic skills of the anthropological toolkit
How to better understand cultural differences and sameness
How to better engage in cultural comparison
How to see the world from a range of perspectives and points of view
How to understand key anthropological concepts and methods
A knowledge and understanding of current world issues relating to identity, power and everyday life as experienced in a variety of places by a variety of people

What's inside

Learning objectives

The basic skills of the anthropological toolkit
How to better understand cultural differences and sameness
How to better engage in cultural comparison

How to see the world from a range of perspectives and points of view
How to understand key anthropological concepts and methods
A knowledge and understanding of current world issues relating to identity, power and everyday life as experienced in a variety of places by a variety of people

The basic skills of the anthropological toolkit
How to better understand cultural differences and sameness
How to better engage in cultural comparison
How to see the world from a range of perspectives and points of view
How to understand key anthropological concepts and methods
A knowledge and understanding of current world issues relating to identity, power and everyday life as experienced in a variety of places by a variety of people

Syllabus

GETTING STARTED EPISODE 1 - ANTHROPOLOGY 101 - I During the first week of the course, we spend some time introducing the course content and navigation, introducing ourselves and defining anthropology and what it means to be an anthropologist.

EPISODE 2 - ANTHROPOLOGY 101 - II This week's materials will zero in on Australia as well as migration and how it plays a role in creating multicultural societies.

EPISODE 3 - INDIGENEITY - I In this episode, we introduce the concept of indigeneity and go into the field with Annie Ross to learn about cultural heritage.

EPISODE 4 - INDIGENEITY - II This week we explore the Northern Gulf Country of Australia with David Trigger and Richard Martin and discuss indigenous and non-indigenous relationships.

PROJECT WEEK EPISODE 5 - INDIGENEITY - III In this episode we meet Diana Young, the director of the UQ Anthropology Museum, to learn about indigenous artifacts and begin work on our own museum project.

EPISODE 6 - LIVING WITHIN LIMITS - I This week we visit Cuba with Anna Cristina Pertierra and find out what refrigerators can tell us about a family's standing.

EPISODE 7 - LIVING WITHIN LIMITS - II In this episode we head to Chile with Sally Babidge to discuss the role of diminishing water resources in the community.

EPISODE 8 - LIVING WITHIN LIMITS - III During this week of the course, Gerhard Hoffstaedter takes us to Malaysia to learn more about the lives of refugees.

EPISODE 9 - LIVING WITHIN LIMITS - IV In this episode we visit the Darling Downs region of Queensland with Kim de Rijke to learn about unconventional gas mining.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines aspects of anthropology that are of interest to professionals and organizations in a variety of specializations such as social work, healthcare, education, business, etc

Taught by industry recognized experts who are involved in cutting-edge anthropological work all over the world

Develops foundational knowledge in anthropological theory and method, empowering learners to engage in advanced study or practice

Taught by practitioners from the University of Queensland, an educational institution well-respected for its research in social sciences and public policy

Reviews summary

Informative course in anthropology

Learners say this online course in Anthropology is a mixed bag. Some enjoyed the lectures while others had a hard time following along. Deadlines are strict but the certificate is worth it.

Objectives were clearly defined.

"The objectives of the course were very clear."

Engaging lectures on different cultures

"This course gives you different perspectives on our current world topics."

"I found the lectures to be consistently engaging and thoughtful."

Grading is strict and deadlines inflexible.

"The grading is extremely strict and the deadlines are inflexible."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Anthropology of Current World Issues with these activities:

Connect with Anthropologists in the Field

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Gain access to valuable insights and guidance by connecting with experienced anthropologists.

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Attend professional conferences and events to meet anthropologists
Reach out to professors, researchers, and practitioners in the field
Explain your interest and ask for guidance and advice

Discussion Group: Anthropological Perspectives

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Deepen your understanding by discussing anthropological concepts and their application with fellow students.

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Join or form a study group with other students in the course
Choose topics related to the course material for discussion
Prepare for each meeting by reading assigned materials and developing questions
Participate actively in discussions, sharing insights and perspectives

Introduction to Anthropological Concepts

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Prepare yourself for the course by familiarizing yourself with key concepts and perspectives in anthropology.

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Explore the University of California, Berkeley's online course on 'Introduction to Anthropology'
Watch YouTube videos on topics like 'What is Anthropology?' and 'The Importance of Anthropology'
Read introductions and overviews from anthropology textbooks online

Five other activities

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Review 'Anthropology: The Basics' by J.R. Jenkins

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Lay a solid foundation in anthropology by reading a comprehensive introductory book on the subject.

View Disrupting Corporate Culture on Amazon

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Purchase a copy of 'Anthropology: The Basics' by J.R. Jenkins
Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and arguments
Complete the chapter exercises and review questions to test your understanding

Organize and Summarize Course Materials

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Strengthen your understanding and retention of course content by creating a comprehensive summary of key concepts and arguments.

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Review lecture notes, readings, and other materials to identify key concepts and arguments
Create a system for organizing and summarizing your notes, such as using a mind map or concept tree
Develop concise summaries that capture the essence of each concept or argument
Regularly review your summary materials to enhance retention

Practice Ethnographic Observation

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Enhance your observation and analytical skills through practicing ethnographic observation in everyday interactions.

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Choose a public setting with diverse interactions, such as a park or shopping mall
Spend 1-2 hours observing people's behavior, communication, and interactions
Take detailed notes, focusing on verbal and non-verbal cues, social groups, and cultural patterns
Analyze your notes, identifying cultural norms, values, and beliefs

Cultural Comparison Exercises

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Develop your ability to compare and contrast cultural practices by engaging in targeted exercises.

Browse courses on Cultural Comparison

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Select two cultures that differ significantly in their practices and values
Conduct research on each culture, focusing on specific aspects like family structure, communication styles, or religious beliefs
Create a table or chart comparing the similarities and differences between the two cultures
Analyze your findings to identify patterns and draw insights about cultural diversity

Develop an Anthropological Case Study

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Apply anthropological methods to a real-world context by developing your own case study focused on a specific cultural group or phenomenon.

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Select a research topic and define a clear research question
Conduct field observations and collect data using qualitative methods (e.g., interviews, participant observation)
Analyze your data, identifying patterns, themes, and cultural insights
Write your case study report, presenting your findings, conclusions, and implications
Share your case study with peers or present it at a local anthropology event

Career center

Learners who complete Anthropology of Current World Issues will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Anthropologist

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Anthropologists. This course will teach you how to see the world through a variety of perspectives, which will help you understand the people and cultures you work with. You will also learn how to conduct anthropological research, which will be invaluable in your work as an Anthropologist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Anthropologist

Museum curator

Museum Curators may find Anthropology of Current World Issues helpful. This course will teach you about the history and culture of different societies, which will help you to curate exhibits that are both informative and engaging. You will also learn how to manage a museum collection, which will be essential for your work as a Museum Curator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

Social Worker

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Social Workers. This course will teach you about the different social and cultural factors that can affect people's lives. You will also learn how to provide support and services to people from diverse backgrounds, which will be essential for your work as a Social Worker.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Teacher

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Teachers. This course will teach you about the different cultures and perspectives of your students. You will also learn how to create a more inclusive and equitable classroom environment, which will benefit all of your students.

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Journalist

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Journalists. This course will teach you how to understand and report on current events from a variety of perspectives. You will also learn how to conduct research and interviews, which will be essential for your work as a Journalist.

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Nonprofit Manager

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Nonprofit Managers. This course will teach you about the different social and cultural factors that can affect the work of nonprofits. You will also learn how to manage a nonprofit organization in a culturally sensitive manner, which will be essential for your work as a Nonprofit Manager.

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Lawyer

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Lawyers. This course will teach you about the different legal systems and cultures around the world. You will also learn how to advocate for your clients in a culturally sensitive manner, which will be essential for your work as a Lawyer.

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Cultural Consultant

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Cultural Consultants. This course will teach you about the different cultural factors that can affect business interactions. You will also learn how to help businesses navigate cultural differences and build stronger relationships with their customers and partners.

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Diversity and Inclusion Manager

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Diversity and Inclusion Managers. This course will teach you about the different social and cultural factors that can affect diversity and inclusion in the workplace. You will also learn how to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace environment, which will benefit all of your employees.

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Policy Analyst

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Policy Analysts. This course will teach you about the different social, cultural, and economic factors that can affect policy decisions. You will also learn how to conduct research and analysis to inform policymaking, which will be essential for your work as a Policy Analyst.

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Market Researcher

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Market Researchers. This course will teach you about the different cultural factors that can affect consumer behavior. You will also learn how to conduct research and analysis to understand the needs and wants of different cultural groups, which will be essential for your work as a Market Researcher.

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Public relations manager

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Public Relations Managers. This course will teach you about the different cultural factors that can affect public opinion. You will also learn how to develop and implement public relations campaigns that are culturally sensitive and effective, which will be essential for your work as a Public Relations Manager.

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Human Resources Manager

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Human Resources Managers. This course will teach you about the different cultural factors that can affect workplace dynamics. You will also learn how to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace environment, which will benefit all of your employees.

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International Development Worker

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for International Development Workers. This course will teach you about the different social, cultural, and economic factors that can affect development projects. You will also learn how to work with people from different cultures in a respectful and effective manner, which will be essential for your work as an International Development Worker.

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Historian

Anthropology of Current World Issues may be useful for Historians. This course will teach you about the different ways that historians can use anthropological methods to study the past. You will also learn how to conduct research and analysis to write accurate and engaging historical accounts, which will be essential for your work as a Historian.

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