UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Confirmation that this version of the module specification has been approved by the School
Learning and Teaching Committee:
17th March 2015
MODULE SPECIFICATION
1.
Title of the module
SE992 - Advanced Topics in Evolutionary Anthropology
2.
School or partner institution which will be responsible for management of the module
School of Anthropology and Conservation
3.
Start date of the module
September 2011 (revised version start date September 2016)
4.
The number of students expected to take the module
5-10
5.
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and
consultation with other relevant Schools and Faculties regarding the withdrawal
None
6.
The level of the module (e.g. Certificate [C], Intermediate [I], Honours [H] or
Postgraduate [M])
M
7.
The number of credits and the ECTS value which the module represents
15 credits, (7.5 ECTS)
8.
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern)
Autumn Term
9.
Prerequisite and co-requisite modules
None
10. The programmes of study to which the module contributes
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
MSc in Evolution and Human Behaviour
Also available as a Wild Module for other MA/MSc programmes in the School.
11. The intended subject specific learning outcomes
11.1 Advanced knowledge and in-depth understanding of theoretical concerns and
new research in scientific and evolutionary anthropology
11.2. Exposure to evolutionary approaches to the study of human behaviour
11.3. Ability to critically evaluate new research in evolutionary anthropology, and
more generally, that of evolutionary science
11.4. An in depth understanding of the internal workings of the research and
publishing process in evolutionary and anthropological science
12. The intended generic learning outcomes
12.1 Critical thinking
12.2 Development of writing skills, such as clarity and presenting analytical results
12.3 Reading skills
12.4 Oral presentation skills
12.5 Time management and preparation
12.6 Organisation of information in a clear way.
13. A synopsis of the curriculum
This module is an advanced treatment of current topics and debates in evolutionary
anthropology such as human behavioural ecology, anthropological genetics,
evolutionary demography, growth and development, human evolution, primatology,
and human adaptability. Emphasis is on advances in these areas during the past
decade and the directions of future research. The goal of this course is to understand
these topics and, specifically, how research and publication works in evolutionary
and anthropological science. This module will allow students to be exposed to a
broad series of topics, opinions, methodologies, journal articles, and ideas in
numerous highly relevant fields of research. Seminars will critically examine classic
and recent journal articles, considering the quality of research and presentation, and
the utility and diversity of using Darwinian approaches to explore and explain human
behaviour.
14. Indicative Reading List
The reading list for this module will change from year to year. It will contain the most
up to date and/or controversial topics in a variety of fields associated with
evolutionary anthropology.
Articles will be drawn from the following journals and other relevant sources where
appropriate:
Evolution and Human Behavior
Evolutionary Psychology
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Journal of Human Evolution
Human Nature
Human Biology
International Journal of Primatology
Nature
Science
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
15. Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours
and the total study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to
achievement of the intended module learning outcomes
One 2-hour seminar per week. Contact hours: 22; Expected independent study hours
128 Total study hours: 150.
Each seminar will consist of a student-led discussion/presentation on a particular
topic followed by a broader discussion on the topic led by the module convenor.
Seminars
11.1, 11.2 11.3, 11.4, 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4, 12.5, 12.6
16. Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended
module learning outcomes
This module will be assessed by 100% coursework: 1. Seminar leadership by each
student, including their facilitating the discussion, setting the topic and assigning the
readings (20%) and 2. a 4,000 word Extended Essay on one of the seminar topics
covered in the module (80%)
Seminar Leading
11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 12.1, 12.3, 12.4, 12.5, 12.6
Essay
11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 12.1, 12.2 12.3, 12.5, 12.6
17. Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
No Implications
18. The School recognises and has embedded the expectations of current disability
equality legislation, and supports students with a declared disability or special
educational need in its teaching. Within this module we will make reasonable
adjustments wherever necessary, including additional or substitute materials,
teaching modes or assessment methods for students who have declared and
discussed their learning support needs. Arrangements for students with declared
disabilities will be made on an individual basis, in consultation with the University’s
disability/dyslexia support service, and specialist support will be provided where
needed.
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
19. Campus(es) or Centre(s) where module will be delivered:
Canterbury
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Module Specification Template (v.October 2014)