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School of Global Studies

Visual, Sensory and Digital Anthropology (860L6)

Visual, Sensory and Digital Anthropology

Module 860L6

Module details for 2023/24.

30 credits

FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)

Module Outline

This module explores the imaginative worlds that we inhabit through visual, other
sensory, and digital media. It investigates how they form a part of everyday practices, as
well as how researchers have used such tools to understand, collaborate, and represent
these practices.

Drawing on empirical material produced by anthropologists and others, it covers a wide
range of case studies from across the world, including ethnographic, activist, and creative
examples. Covering contextual studies of photography, film, graphic narratives,
soundscapes, performances, virtual media and much more, the module will provide
theoretical, ethnographic, and practical insights on the media from their production, their
significance, to their reception.

The module will equip you with critical insights and skills in key issues on the relationships
between media and cultural contexts - a growing field of interest for a wide range of people
in academia and beyond.

Module learning outcomes

Demonstrate a critical understanding of different theoretical, cultural and
contextual traditions and practical applications within anthropology (with
a focus on photography, audio-visual, multisensory and virtual media).

Demonstrate a wide understanding of different theories of perception,
visual cultures and other sensory engagements in cultures across the
world, within anthropology and across the humanities and social
sciences

Share an understanding of ethnographic practice and scope (e.g. within
virtual environments)

Demonstrate the ability to develop critical arguments based on (audio-)
visual and other sensory materia

Apply theory and lessons learnt from examining case studies to practice-
based assessments

Analyse and critically use media in presentations and other platforms.

TypeTimingWeighting
Essay (3000 words)Semester 2 Assessment Week 2 Thu 16:0060.00%
Coursework40.00%
Coursework components. Weighted as shown below.
PortfolioT2 Week 10 (20 minutes)100.00%
Timing

Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.

Weighting

Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.

TermMethodDurationWeek pattern
Spring SemesterWorkshop3 hours11111111111
Spring SemesterFilm1 hour11111111111

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.

Dr Mariagiulia Grassilli

Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/90587

Prof Raminder Kaur

Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/158815

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