James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

AN2109:03

The Anthropology and Archaeology of the Pacific *

39 hours workshops/seminars. Semester 1. From 2006 the lecture material will be delivered on-line using Learn JCU (Blackboard).

Staff: Dr D Roe, Dr R Henry (Townsville campus); Assoc. Professor J Campbell, Dr M Wood (Cairns campus).

This subject considers the development, practice and findings of anthropological and archaeological research on the Pacific. Following a critical overview of the evidence of human colonisation and settlement of the region, and its cultural and linguistic diversity, the subject provides an integrated exploration of a number of key areas of research in the two disciplines under the headings: colonial encounters; leadership and power; production and exchange; ritual; heritage, land and environment; gender.

Learning Objectives:

1. to promote an appreciation of the complexity and diversity of the societies and cultures of the Pacific through time;
2. to provide an understanding of the implications of current findings and theoretical perspectives in the anthropology and archaeology of the Pacific;
3. to provide students with a framework in which they are able to assess the value of an interdisciplinary approach to a number of key areas of research on the Pacific;
4. to encourage critical analysis of anthropological and archaeological approaches to understanding of Pacific peoples.

Assessment by workshop participation/presentation and defence (20%); class test (30%); essay (50%).