Zimmer’s Field Based Essay, Research Paper

What is a field based project in anthropology like? Check out Laura Zimmer Tamakoshi?s web site http://www.truman.edu/academics/ss/faculty/tamakoshil

Go to each of the three sections and create an outline from the materials that you review listing at least five facts from each of the five subtopics presented.

A field-based project in anthropology, from what I learned form Laura Zimmer?s wed site, is a lot of work. Although I thought that it would be all fun and no work I found out that I could not have been more wrong.

Laura broke done a field based into three parts, planing, method, and writing. In each of these Laura further broke the processes into subtopic. The planning sage of a field based is probably the most important step in a trip. The first subtopic is finding out the background of the culture that you wish to conduct the study on. This is very important part of planning. It?s so when you get to your destination you will not arrive ?blind? to what is or has gone on in the culture prior to your arrival. The next step is the proposal stage. This is where you as a research will try to gain funding for the research for one or more agencies. Once that this is complete you must apply for the proper permits to be in the country as a researcher.

The next subtopic is the preparation of the trip. This is where you will do thing such as learn the native language to help you communicate with the culture you are studying. Next you will have to obtain the proper leave from you job and also let family members know the details. The final step of preparation is that packing for the field. This is a very important step because you don?t want to be left in a remote area with out the proper supplies. Laura Zimmer?s list: Clothing: cotton dresses (2), denim skirts (2), sleeveless shirts (2), t-shirts (2), polo shirts (2), long-sleeved blouses (2), pullover, cardigan, windbreaker, rain poncho, umbrella, hiking boots, sneakers, wooden sandals, rubber sandals, socks (4 pairs, NOT ENOUGH!), flannel nightgown, underwear, sarongs (2), bathing suit, broad brimmed hat, sunglasses (I left dressier clothing and shoes with a friend in Port Moresby). Medical: aspirin, antihistamines, sore throat lozenges, ambesol, eye drops, nasal spray, blistex, antibiotic creams and powders, iodine, antifungal creams and powders, antiseptic, gauze, Band-Aids, wraps and ointments for sprains or sore muscles, bug repellents, sunscreen, baby powder, baby oil, medicated soaps, burn creams, multivitamins, and any prescription drugs you need as there may be no doctor or aid posts nearby. Equipment: notebooks, typing and carbon paper, pencils, pens, pencil sharpener, file folders, typewriter, clip board, tape recorders, cameras, film, tapes, batteries, envelopes, stamps, plastic bags and containers for film storage, tape measure, scissors, pocket knife. Other: music tapes and paperbacks for relaxation and downtime (the books will be exchanged for others whenever you run into an expatriate or local reader!)

The next problem will be how to get there. Here is where you should make very solid plans on travel (plain, boat, car, foot ?etc.) An estimate should have been in the proposals. Would should also double-check the things that you packed so you will not forget anything. BRING ENOUGH MONEY. This is very important you would not want to run out of money half way though the study.

The next step is to choose you field site and obtain as much information as possible. Such as census reports and duty calls. This wills all come in useful especially when your study involves kinship.

The Method part of the field based project will include The setting up when you first enter the field. Once you establish all this go around and meet people, exchange gifts and most of all participate in the community in which you are studying.

The Writing stage of the fieldwork includes note taking, record keeping and especially pictures. It is very important to keep a record of as much as possible and keep all letters. This will help you to latter reflect on your wonderful experience of field based study.