WMN4700

Issues in Feminist Cross-Cultural Research ( 12 points, SCA Band 1, 0.250 EFTSL)

Leader: A/Prof Denise Cuthbert

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit introduces key feminist debates in the theory and practice of cross-cultural research and grounds those debates in the literature of globalization and gender and development. Issues examined include the power relations underlying and determining the research process; cultural biases inherent in the production of knowledge; ethical issues in cross-cultural research; negotiating racial, ethnic and cultural differences in research. Discussion will also cover the challenges posed to white Western feminism primarily by women of colour, Third World and indigenous women, and women from other non-Western groups.

Objectives: Students successfully completing this unit will have: 1. acquired a grounded, working knowledge of the major feminist debates and methodological literature in the field of cross-cultural research; 2. an understanding of the gendered dimensions of debates concerning globalisation and development; 3. a capacity for informed, theoretical critique of feminist research methodologies and other qualitative research methodologies; 4. skills in the presentation of verbal and written analyses and arguments on issues pertaining to cross-cultural feminist research; 5. familiarity with a range of research methodologies appropriate to feminist cross-cultural research.

Assessment: Short Essay (2700 words): 30% + Seminar presentation (equivalent 1800 words): 20% + Research paper (4500 words): 50%

Contact Hours: 2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

Prohibitions: WSM4700/5700