Title: Anthropological Skills - Learn and Teach
Headings: Anthropological Skills
Anthropological Skills
October 10, 2015
Anthropological Skills
Understanding Human Diversity
Research Skills for Collecting and Understanding Information
Effective Communication

Content: Understanding Human Diversity
No matter which subfield is emphasized, an anthropology major learns about other cultures and the ways they may differ from his or her own background and expectations. These differences are not viewed as a problem to be overcome but as a resource that can yield new ways of thinking and new opportunities— a definite advantage in the professional world. Becoming familiar with a wide range of behaviors, beliefs, and values, the student is likely to be more culturally sensitive and flexible in dealings not only with co-workers and clients but also with neighbors and the community. These skills enable him or her to live and work in a world that is increasingly multicultural and global. Research Skills for Collecting and Understanding Information
Likewise, whether the student’s experience in school is in documenting artifacts at an archaeological site, taking measurements of human bones, or recording the daily course of social interaction, all anthropologists learn research skills about how to collect quality information, analyze information to identify important details, and relate those particulars to a larger issue. Anthropological training therefore strengthens the ability to think in terms of whole systems, rather than just the individual parts of those systems. It also emphasizes using multiple techniques to learn about a topic, and considering various interpretations of the results. In addition, anthropologists often examine "behind the scenes” aspects of issues to be sure the right questions are being asked in the first place. These habits make graduates good critical thinkers and able contributors to many kinds of projects, from start to finish. Effective Communication
Anthropologists recognize what people know is of limited use if it cannot be conveyed to others, so the discipline also fosters written and spoken communication skills.