AIA3300 - Archaeological Field and Laboratory Methods

Leader: Dr Ian McNiven

Offered

Not offered in 2007

Synopsis

The subject provides students with a through grounding in archaeological field and laboratory techniques. Field techniques include critical analysis of different approaches by archaeologists to find, record and excavate sites. Practical experience and tuition in each of these three areas will be gained through 10 days of fieldwork in Victoria. To understand how archaeologists interpret excavated materials, students will gain practical experience in the identification and analysis of bone, shell, stone artefact and pottery through laboratory classes. On completion of the subject students will have firsthand appreciation of what it takes to excavate and analyse archaeological sites.

Objectives

The overarching aims are to provide students with a through grounding in archaeological field and laboratory techniques. On successful completion of this subject, students will be able to:

• Appreciate the broad range of conceptual and practical skills required to find, record and excavate archaeological sites.
• Develop skills in the proper identification and appropriate analysis of a range of classes of archaeological materials.
• Develop skills to critically evaluate site survey and excavation reports.

Assessment

Third Year students will have the same assessment structure to Second Year students but be expected to complete assessed work at a qualitatively and theoretically more sophisticated level than in the Second Year version of the unit.
Fieldwork diary (50%)
+ 1hr lab exam (50%)

Contact hours

Flexible.