Anthropology at GVSU

Anthropology is the study of human population and its ancestors across time and space. It studies to understand the origin and evolution of the human species, as well as its biological and cultural diversity. General Anthropology encompasses the field of anthropology as a whole, consisting of the four major sub-disciplines which are: Archaeological, Biological, Cultural, and Linguistic. Archaeological Anthropology studies human behavior and cultural patterns as well as processes through the culture’s material remains. Biological Anthropology studies human biological variation. Cultural Anthropology studies human society and culture. Linguistic Anthropology studies origin, history, and socio-cultural aspects of language.

Anthropology can be applied e.g. compile research data, create theories and methods to identify problems, and assess and solve contemporary social problems in different fields including medical sectors. Currently a faculty-student joint research on “Student Led Study of Public Health Risks Associated With Indoor Radon Gas in West Michigan, MI” is underway. In the study, the indoor radon gas level is being measured in the households by an electronic radon detecting device approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Water used by these households will be tested using standard methods to determine the amount of dissolved radon gas and other chemical parameters, such as pH, total dissolved solid, nitrate, and phosphate. Socioeconomic data will be collected using a survey questionnaire, an ethnographic survey and through Focus Group Discussions. This research project is approved by the GVSU Human Research Review Committee.

The potential benefits of the project are:

  1. Results of radon test given to participants free of cost.
  2. Identify variables required to study the relationships between socioeconomic status and indoor radon gas occurrences.
  3. Determine concentrations of indoor radon gas and dissolved radon gas in water.
  4. Coordinate a community-based service learning project for students.