You are obliged to attend all blocks in which this course is given in order to obtain the ECTS.
You will find the ECTS for this course at the course description of – Part Two.
Admission requirements
BA-diploma. Good preparation of the research is indispensable (knowledge of the culture and the methods to be applied, the local situation, the necessary languages etc.).
Description
Tutorial for writing an academic report (thesis) on research of a specific topic within the field of the archaeology, history and / or anthropology of Mesoamerica and the Andes. Themes may range from analysis of works of art, religious narratives, concepts and rituals, via social organization, trade routes and sacred landscapes, to cultural interaction, heritage and identity, indigenous movements etc. Critical evaluation of the existing literature is combined with original investigation of archaeological, historical and / or ethnographic data. This may involve fieldwork or other research abroad in December-February or June-August, either as semi-independent work or in connection with projects of staff or colleagues from local institutions or European / American universities. Such practical research activities must be planned in detail with the thesis supervisor and can only be initiated after written permission.
It is advisable to choose the second specialisation as an additional support for the MA thesis. Particularly relevant may be a more in-depth perspective on the Native American world, through either the archaeology of the Caribbean and Amazonia, or Mesoamerican or Andean language and literature (e.g. courses on Maya or Quechua offered by the Leiden University Center of Linguistics, Faculty of Humanities). After obtaining permission from the Commission for the Exams, students may also tailor their program by choosing other relevant classes from the Faculties of the Humanities and / or Social Sciences.
Learning objectives
Reflection on different aspects of thesis research and writing.
Demonstration of professional capacity in research on a topic of Native American archaeology and/or culture history.
Method of instruction
Research, discussion and writing. Orientation, guidance, preparation and feedback is provided primarily during thesis tutorials and in individual consultations with the supervisors. Students have to attend the relevant thesis tutorial until they have completed their thesis. Apart from this formal tutorial, students are expected to take initiative in maintaining regular contact with their coordinator and/or other supervisor(s) and in reporting about their progress.
Examination
M.A. thesis (for rules and criteria see the faculty webpage), to be submitted to two supervisors (at least one of whom is a faculty staff member). Generally the report is a written thesis, but other forms are possible as well, if proper preparatory courses have been followed, e.g. a documentary film, a computer program or CD-Rom, etc. Definitive discussion and evaluation takes place during the formal thesis defense.
Required reading
Publications selected by the students themselves (library and internet search).