This course will introduce students to the discipline of ethnomusicology, with particular attention to the nature of ethnographic research and writing on music. It will examine how and why people make music across different cultural contexts, focusing on the themes of identity, tradition, and activism. Students will learn about ethnomusicological theories and methods through reading, writing, discussion, participatory performance activities, and an independent research project. In addition to case studies of musical practices from around the world, the course will examine the changing relationships between ethnomusicologists and the musicians and communities with whom they work.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Demonstrate understanding of the theoretical and methodological approaches of ethnomusicological research;
2. Apply these approaches to pursue knowledge about different musical cultures;
3. Situate particular musical sounds in particular social, historical, and cultural contexts; and
4. Explain some of the factors that motivate artists to perform and/or compose in particular ways.

Research-Led Teaching

This course develops students' research skills and understanding in the area of music ethnography. Course content includes presentations and workshops based on the convenor's ethnomusicological research.

Field Trips

The class will visit the Indonesian Embassy for a Balinese gamelan workshop, subject to staff availability.

Additional Course Costs

In completing their research projects for this course, students may incur additional costs relating to transport or purchase of tickets for performance events. The specifics will depend upon the details of the student’s chosen project. 

Examination Material or equipment

Additional information about examination procedure is available here: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/assessments-exams/examination-conduct

Required Resources

It is recommended that student purchase the textbook Ethnomusicology: A Very Short Introduction (Timothy Rice, Oxford University Press). It is available through online retailers as an ebook or paperback (purchase here ). A limited number of copies are available on reserve in the Art and Music Library.

Staff Feedback

Students will be given feedback in the following forms in this course:

• Written comments ?
• Verbal comments ?
• Feedback to the whole class, to groups, and to individuals ?

Student Feedback

ANU is committed to the demonstration of educational excellence and regularly seeks feedback from students. Students are encouraged to offer feedback directly to their Course Convener or through their College and Course representatives (if applicable). Feedback can also be provided to Course Conveners and teachers via the Student Experience of Learning & Teaching (SELT) feedback program. SELT surveys are confidential and also provide the Colleges and ANU Executive with opportunities to recognise excellent teaching, and opportunities for improvement.

Class Schedule

Week/Session	Summary of Activities	Assessment
1	Week 1What is ethnomusicology?
2	Week 2Defining music
3	Week 3Ethnographic theory and method
4	Week 4Ethnomusicology, history, and tradition
5	Week 5Music, gender, and tradition in West Africa
6	Week 6Forging national identity through calypso and steelband in Trinidad	Project PlanDue Thursday 4 pm
7	Week 7Exploring gamelan music in Indonesia
8	Week 8Music, identity, and place in Australia
9	Week 9Approaches to applied ethnomusicology
10	Week 10Applied ethnomusicology (cont.): Music, health, and wellbeing
11	Week 11Student presentations	Ethnography paperDue Friday 4 pm
12	Week 12Final reflection and review	Final exam during exam period

Tutorial Registration

ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.

Assessment Summary

Assessment task	Value	Learning Outcomes
Project Plan	10 %	1,2
Group Project Presentation	20 %	1,2,3,4
Ethnography Paper	30 %	1,2,3,4
Final Exam	30 %	1,2,3,4
Participation	10 %	1,2,3,4

* If the Due Date and Return of Assessment date are blank, see the Assessment Tab for specific Assessment Task details

Policies

ANU has educational policies, procedures and guidelines , which are designed to ensure that staff and students are aware of the University’s academic standards, and implement them. Students are expected to have read the Academic Integrity Rule before the commencement of their course. Other key policies and guidelines include:

• Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
• Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure
• Special Assessment Consideration Guideline and General Information 
• Student Surveys and Evaluations
• Deferred Examinations
• Student Complaint Resolution Policy and Procedure
• Code of practice for teaching and learning

Assessment Requirements

The ANU is using Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the Academic Skills website. In rare cases where online submission using Turnitin software is not technically possible; or where not using Turnitin software has been justified by the Course Convener and approved by the Associate Dean (Education) on the basis of the teaching model being employed; students shall submit assessment online via ‘Wattle’ outside of Turnitin, or failing that in hard copy, or through a combination of submission methods as approved by the Associate Dean (Education). The submission method is detailed below.

Moderation of Assessment

Marks that are allocated during Semester are to be considered provisional until formalised by the College examiners meeting at the end of each Semester. If appropriate, some moderation of marks might be applied prior to final results being released.

Participation

See Assessment Task 5

Examination(s)

See Assessment Task 4

Assessment Task 1

Project Plan

The project plan should describe the topic of your ethnography paper, research questions you plan to explore, and your intended methodological approach. It should include a bibliography of at least five academic sources. The minimum requirement for the ethnographic project is to carry out one interview and one observation of a music event. These may be conducted together with the other members of your group or individually. In addition, you are expected to consult academic sources relevant to your chosen topic. The project should focus on the significance of your chosen musical topic in the lives of the people who create it or listen to it. You may choose to focus more on analysis of the music itself, or on the social, cultural, political, or religious meanings attached to that music.

Note: The ethnography paper is connected to your group ethnographic project, but the paper must be written individually.

Word count: 400 words

Value: 10%

Assessment criteria:

1. Quality and originality of research topic and questions

2. Demonstrated understanding of relevant research methods

3. Quality of academic writing and referencing

4. Selection of relevant academic sources

Rubric

Grade	Letter	Numerical Mark (%)	Standards
High Distinction	HD	80-100	Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Distinction	D	70-79	Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Credit	C	60-69	Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Pass	P	50-59	Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Fail	N	0-49	Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated

Assessment Task 2

Group Project Presentation

The presentation should report on the findings of the group ethnographic project. The minimum requirement for the group ethnographic project is to carry out one interview and one observation of a music event (online or in person). In addition, you are expected to consult academic sources relevant to your chosen topic. You may choose to focus more on analysis of the music itself, or on the social, cultural, political, or religious meanings attached to that music. Groups are expected to meet with the instructor early in the semester to discuss the chosen topic.

Presentations will take place in weeks 7-12 of the semester. The presentation should include:

• a brief live performance and/or an audio/video recording of the music you discuss
• a participatory component (e.g. teach the class a song, ask questions to engage your audience)

Value: 20%

Presentation requirements: The presentation should be 20 minutes, and include a live performance and/or a recording of the music you discuss, as well as a participatory component. Each group member must also submit a written summary (~500 words) of the project activities. This should include a description of the interview(s) and observation(s) undertaken as part of the project, as well as a bibliography of academic sources consulted. In addition, the written summary must clearly outline and evaluate what each group member contributed to the project. (It is expected that all members of a group will contribute equally to the work of the project.)

Estimated return date: Within two weeks of date of presentation

Assessment Criteria:

1. Clarity and organisation of oral presentation

2. Evidence of group research (observation/s, interview/s, and engagement with

scholarly sources)

3. Quality of relevant performance example (live or recorded)

4. Quality of participatory component

Rubric

Grade	Letter Grade	Numerical Mark (%)	Standards
High Distinction	HD	80-100	Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Distinction	D	70-79	Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Credit	C	60-69	Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Pass	P	50-59	Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level

Assessment Task 3

Ethnography Paper

Draw on evidence from your group ethnographic research, as well as relevant academic sources, to investigate the significance of your chosen music in the lives of participants (i.e. musicians, composers, dancers, audience members, etc.). You may choose to focus more on analysis of the music itself, or on the social, cultural, political, or religious meanings attached to that music. You are encouraged to meet with the instructor early in the semester to discuss your chosen topic.

Note: The ethnography paper is connected to your group ethnographic project, but the paper must be written individually.

Word limit: 2000 words

Value: 30%

Presentation requirements: The paper should include a title, written discussion and analysis of the chosen case study, and a bibliography of at least five academic sources.

Estimated return date: Within two weeks of submission

Assessment Criteria:

1. Application of theories and concepts from scholarship in ethnomusicology and/or related disciplines
2. Ideas supported with evidence from fieldwork and relevant scholarship
3. Articulation of argument, depth of investigation and level of criticality
4. Quality of academic writing and referencing

Rubric

Grade	Letter Grade	Numerical Mark (%)	Standards
High Distinction	HD	80-100	Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Distinction	D	70-79	Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Credit	C	60-69	Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Pass	P	50-59	Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Fail	N	0-49	Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated

Assessment Task 4

Final Exam

The exam will be held during the examination period (date to be confirmed). The exam will include multiple choice questions and essay questions.

Word limit: The total word count of the four paragraphs should be 800 words (i.e. approximately 200 words for each paragraph)

Value: 30%

Presentation requirements: There will be two sections in the exam paper.

Section 1: 10-20 multiple choice questions

Section 2: Write four paragraphs to answer four questions, which you can choose from a list of eight questions.

Estimated return date: Two weeks later 

Assessment Criteria:

1. Demonstrated understanding of the topic
2. Use of concepts and ideas from reading assignments, lectures, and other course material
3. Ideas supported with evidence from course materials and experiences
4. Articulation of argument, depth of investigation and level of criticality

Rubric

Grade	Letter Grade	Numerical Mark (%)	Standards
High Distinction	HD	80-100	Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Distinction	D	70-79	Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Credit	C	60-69	Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Pass	P	50-59	Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level
Fail	N	0-49	Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated

Assessment Task 5

Participation

Active participation is essential for this course. You should prepare for class meetings by completing the assigned readings and taking thorough notes. You are expected to actively contribute to discussions, small group activities, quizzes, and other in-class activities. In addition, you are expected to listen actively to other students’ ideas, and to respond constructively and thoughtfully.

Value: 10%

Assessment criteria: (See Assessment Rubric available on the course Wattle site)

- Frequency of participation in discussions and other in-class activities

- Evidence of preparation

- Evidence of listening skills

Rubric

High Distinction	Distinction	Credit	Pass	Fail
Participated in over 90% of in-class activities. Demonstrated exceptional preparation and listening skills.	Participated in over 70% of in-class activities. Demonstrated superior preparation and listening skills.	Participated in over 60% of in-class activities. Demonstrated good preparation and listening skills.	Participated in over 50% of in-class activities. Demonstrated adequate preparation and listening skills.	Participated in less than 50% of in- class activities. Demonstrated inadequate preparation and listening skills.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a core part of the ANU culture as a community of scholars. The University’s students are an integral part of that community. The academic integrity principle commits all students to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support, academic integrity, and to uphold this commitment by behaving honestly, responsibly and ethically, and with respect and fairness, in scholarly practice.

The University expects all staff and students to be familiar with the academic integrity principle, the Academic Integrity Rule 2021, the Policy: Student Academic Integrity and Procedure: Student Academic Integrity, and to uphold high standards of academic integrity to ensure the quality and value of our qualifications.

The Academic Integrity Rule 2021 is a legal document that the University uses to promote academic integrity, and manage breaches of the academic integrity principle. The Policy and Procedure support the Rule by outlining overarching principles, responsibilities and processes. The Academic Integrity Rule 2021 commences on 1 December 2021 and applies to courses commencing on or after that date, as well as to research conduct occurring on or after that date. Prior to this, the Academic Misconduct Rule 2015 applies.

 

The University commits to assisting all students to understand how to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support academic integrity. All coursework students must complete the online Academic Integrity Module (Epigeum), and Higher Degree Research (HDR) students are required to complete research integrity training. The Academic Integrity website provides information about services available to assist students with their assignments, examinations and other learning activities, as well as understanding and upholding academic integrity.

Online Submission

You will be required to electronically sign a declaration as part of the submission of your assignment. Please keep a copy of the assignment for your records. Unless an exemption has been approved by the Associate Dean (Education) submission must be through Turnitin.

Hardcopy Submission

For some forms of assessment (hand written assignments, art works, laboratory notes, etc.) hard copy submission is appropriate when approved by the Associate Dean (Education). Hard copy submissions must utilise the Assignment Cover Sheet. Please keep a copy of tasks completed for your records.

Late Submission

Late submission of assessment tasks without an extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Late submission is not accepted for take-home examinations.

Referencing Requirements

The Academic Skills website has information to assist you with your writing and assessments. The website includes information about Academic Integrity including referencing requirements for different disciplines. There is also information on Plagiarism and different ways to use source material.

Returning Assignments

Student work will be returned through Turnitin with instructor comments. Students who wish to receive additional feedback on assignments should come to the instructor’s consultation hours. 

Extensions and Penalties

Extensions and late submission of assessment pieces are covered by the Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure. Extensions may be granted for assessment pieces that are not examinations or take-home examinations. If you need an extension, you must request an extension in writing on or before the due date. If you have documented and appropriate medical evidence that demonstrates you were not able to request an extension on or before the due date, you may be able to request it after the due date.

Resubmission of Assignments

Assignments may not be resubmitted.

Privacy Notice

The ANU has made a number of third party, online, databases available for students to use. Use of each online database is conditional on student end users first agreeing to the database licensor’s terms of service and/or privacy policy. Students should read these carefully. In some cases student end users will be required to register an account with the database licensor and submit personal information, including their: first name; last name; ANU email address; and other information.
In cases where student end users are asked to submit ‘content’ to a database, such as an assignment or short answers, the database licensor may only use the student’s ‘content’ in accordance with the terms of service – including any (copyright) licence the student grants to the database licensor. Any personal information or content a student submits may be stored by the licensor, potentially offshore, and will be used to process the database service in accordance with the licensors terms of service and/or privacy policy.
If any student chooses not to agree to the database licensor’s terms of service or privacy policy, the student will not be able to access and use the database. In these circumstances students should contact their lecturer to enquire about alternative arrangements that are available.

Distribution of grades policy

Academic Quality Assurance Committee monitors the performance of students, including attrition, further study and employment rates and grade distribution, and College reports on quality assurance processes for assessment activities, including alignment with national and international disciplinary and interdisciplinary standards, as well as qualification type learning outcomes.

Since first semester 1994, ANU uses a grading scale for all courses. This grading scale is used by all academic areas of the University.

Support for students

The University offers students support through several different services. You may contact the services listed below directly or seek advice from your Course Convener, Student Administrators, or your College and Course representatives (if applicable).

• ANU Health, safety & wellbeing for medical services, counselling, mental health and spiritual support
• ANU Access and inclusion for students with a disability or ongoing or chronic illness
• ANU Dean of Students for confidential, impartial advice and help to resolve problems between students and the academic or administrative areas of the University
• ANU Academic Skills and Learning Centre supports you make your own decisions about how you learn and manage your workload.
• ANU Counselling Centre promotes, supports and enhances mental health and wellbeing within the University student community.
• ANUSA supports and represents undergraduate and ANU College students
• PARSA supports and represents postgraduate and research students