Examining Cross-cultural Observations

Session Two

Share findings within groups.

• After all students have completed an initial assessment on all three scales, direct them to meet with the other students who completed the same account. Members of each group should share their ratings and evidence in an effort to reach consensus about the extent of the anthropologist's cross-cultural sensitivity on each of the three scales. Each group is to assemble its findings on a sheet of chart paper that will include the following information:
  • topic of the account
  • name of the anthropologist and date this writing was published
  • copy of the anthropological account that has been annotated (using different-coloured pens) with all the examples of sensitivities and pitfalls noted by the group (similar to the annotated Snaidanac account)
  • the consensus rating for each scale.

Critique the evaluations.

• After groups have completed and posted their summary charts around the room, ask students to pair off again, working with the same partner or a different one. Each new pair is to evaluate a different anthropologist's account (approximately two sets of partners will evaluate each summary chart). Distribute a copy of Assessing the Examination to each pair. Direct them to study the chart and evaluate the group's assessment of the anthropologist's account using the rubric as a guide. Each pair must reach consensus on the rubric ratings and provide a justification under the Comments section of the activity sheet. As each pair finishes its assessment, encourage students to examine other summary charts.

Debrief the evaluations.

• Invite each pair to summarize the anthropologist's account and share its evaluations of the summary chart. Encourage all groups in their efforts, reminding them of the complexity of the task. As students share their assessments, you may want to confirm connections or correct misunderstandings. Collect the completed rubrics. If you trust the ratings, you may wish to include an average of each pair's score in determining a mark for the assignment.

Repeat the critical task.

• If desired, assign for homework an individual assessment of the last of the anthropological accounts. Distribute to each student a copy of Beauty of Form and Temperament (Background Information) and copies of the three evaluation charts. Direct students to complete the critical task one final time by recording their ratings and supporting evidence on the charts.