Methods and Analysis for Anthropology (ANTH 411.01)

Part III: Test Study Questions
Winter 2002 
by Bruce Freeman
Department of Anthropology, University of Calgary, Canada

Midterm Test Date: Wednesday, February 27, 2002

One of the two following questions will be on your test. Allocate approximately twenty to twenty-five minutes to write a response.


1. While working out in the Fitness & Leisure Center you notice a male wearing a t-shirt with the following text: “U of C Engineering” on the front and “Taking the Social out of Social Science” on the back. You do not observe female students wearing this t-shirt nor do you notice the statement associated with other University faculties. We discuss this in class and some students suggest that engineering students hold the social sciences in low regard. Other students, pointing to the demographics of our class, argue that males hold this feeling generally. Our class is asked to investigate further, granted ethical clearance, and provided a list of all U of C students (specifying gender, faculty, telephone numbers) and an unlimited budget.

a. Considering the elements of a “good” hypothesis, develop two statements describing the possible associations among these variables (be sure to clearly specify the variables).

b. State what indicators you will use to measure these variables (you are not asked to develop a questionnaire). For each, state the level of measurement.

c. We will test your hypotheses by conducting telephone surveys. Outline and specify your reasons for choosing what you consider to be the most appropriate sampling method.

2. The Students’ Union is concerned that members of the campus community are being unfairly labeled as behaving irresponsibility after leaving the Black Lounge/Den. They suspect that the majority of late night vandalism is caused by people outside of the University community. As a social researcher, you recognize the value of using both qualitative and quantitative methods to triangulate your observations and would like to offer your professional services to the Students’ Union. You recognize that they will look unfavorably upon an expensive project but might sponsor a cultural anthropology major complete an honors project. Develop a preliminary research proposal to conduct this research. In this you should state:

a. The research problem.

b. How you would propose to research this problem, both qualitatively and quantitatively.

c. How you would address issues of validity associated with your research.
 

URLs for Methods and Analysis for Anthropology (ANTH 411.01)
 
Part I:  Syllabus (www.yale.edu/hraf/methods_analysis_syllabus.htm)
 
Part II: Tentative Class and Reading Schedule (www.yale.edu/hraf/methods_analysis_schedule.htm)
 
Part III: Test Study Questions (www.yale.edu/hraf/methods_analysis_studyquestions.htm)
 
Part IV: Individual and Group Assignments (www.yale.edu/hraf/methods_analysis_assignments.htm)
 
Part V: Course Journal (www.yale.edu/hraf/methods_analysis_coursejournal.htm)