University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 10.00 am - 12.00 noon Tue (film), 11.00 am - 1.00 pm Thu Lecture

This module forms an important introduction to the anthropology and history of the Eurasian region. It draws on Russian and Soviet ethnographies alongside more recent European and American anthropological studies, addressing the Soviet period and life post-independence. Peoples covered in this module are from the five former Soviet Central Asian states, along with groups from Mongolia, South Siberia, and Xinjiang. The module provides a broad overview of regional ethnography alongside relevant anthropological themes. These include pastoral nomadism and oasis life; socialism and post-socialism; human-environment relations and ecological issues; Islam and shamanism; food and feasting; oral epics and popular culture; and domestic practices.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass SA2001 and pass SA2002

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 lecture, 1 seminar, 1 hour of film/video viewing

Scheduled learning hours: 22

Guided independent study hours: 278

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 3-hour Written Examination or Take-Home Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: 6,000-word Essay = 100%

Personnel