Course - The Anthropology of Technology - SANT2026
The Anthropology of Technology
About
About the course
Course content
What does it mean to be human in the age of technology? In this course you will get a theoretical and practical introduction to the anthropology of technology, with an emphasis on exploring concrete technologies in different contexts. Relevant examples are advanced technologies for representation and communication, technologies of production, gene technologies and technologies of re-production. In this way, questions about how technology is part of human relationships is raised: in how humans understand reality, in the deep structures of society, and in how technology gives and has given new development opportunities and dreams of the future.
Learning outcome
You will understand technology as artefact, as a field of knowledge and as a worldview. Based on this you will be able to conduct anthropological analyses on technology in the social, where constructive-critical reflection and precise argumentation is emphasized. In order to actualize research questions, theory and method discussions teaching activities will be conducted in relevant technological contexts. By participant observation, you will be encouraged to reflect upon your encounters with technology, which will enhance understanding regardless of how comfortable you are with modern technology. You will work with and in a technological environment, and this course seeks to provide both theoretical and practical relevant learning outcomes.
Learning methods and activities
The teaching is structured as lectures and seminars where the students will enter different technological settings and conduct technology-anthropological analyses. Parts of the teaching will include experimenting with emerging technologies within teaching and research. There will be Norwegian and international guest lecturers from relevant sectors of industry and research milieus.
Please note that mandatory activities and lectures may start prior to the registration deadline.
Compulsory assignments
- At least 60 % attendance at classes
- Minifeltarbeid
Further on evaluation
The examination consists of two parts: a 4 hour written exam (50%) and a portfolio exam (50%). The content of the portfolio will be announced at the beginning of the semester. The exam can be written in Norwegian, English or another Scandinavian language.
The mandatory activity in this course is a mini field work, and 60% attendance at classes. The mandatory activity will be assessed as approved or not approved. The mandatory activity has to be approved in order to qualify for the exam.
Retake exam
It is possible to retake the exam. The school exam is offered both semesters, but it is only possible to submit the portfolio the semester the course is taught.
The mandatory activities can only be taken in the semester the course is taught, so in order to retake the exam at a different semester, your assignments must be approved.
Recommended previous knowledge
SANT1020, SANT1021, SANT1022 and SANT1023.
Course materials
The reading list will be available at the beginning of the semester.
Credit reductions
| Course code | Reduction | From |
|---|---|---|
| SANT2020 | 7.5 sp | Autumn 2023 |
Subject areas
- Social Anthropology
Contact information
Course coordinator
Department with academic responsibility
Examination
Examination
Ordinary examination - Autumn 2025
School exam
The specified room can be changed and the final location will be ready no later than 3 days before the exam. You can find your room location on Studentweb.