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  3. Practical Archaeology

Practical Archaeology (ANCW30023)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Summer Term
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This subject combines traditional classroom teaching and learning with hands-on fieldwork and workshop exercises to enable students to develop a working knowledge of practical archaeology and its methods within the context of modern research and archaeology in Australia and the Old World (the Near East, Mediterranean and Europe). The subject assumes no prior knowledge of archaeology. It will introduce students to some of the main fieldwork, scientific and interpretive methods involved in practical archaeology. Students will use the University's extensive classics and archaeology collection to develop their practical skills and knowledge about how we can record and interpret the past from archaeological data.

Note: The tutorials are organised according to four ‘blocks’ (each approx. 3 hours duration): surveying; fieldwork (simulated excavation); artefact analysis; and study of standing monuments.

Intended learning outcomes

Students that successfully complete this subject will:

  • demonstrate a sound knowledge and understanding of the main skills, methods and techniques involved in practical archaeology;
  • appreciate the broad range of conceptual and practical skills required in the field of practical archaeology;
  • develop research skills, analytical techniques and interpretative processes involved in practical archaeology;
  • engage critically with the scholarship, theory and methods involved in the field of practical archaeology;
  • approach all activities involved in practical archaeology with intellectual honesty and a respect for ethical values;
  • work effectively, in groups and independently, to undertake key tasks in practical archaeology;
  • understand the nature of archaeological evidence and the requirements of undertaking archaeological fieldwork;
  • communicate effectively archaeological findings both orally and in writing.
  • initiate, plan, implement and evaluate archaeological fieldwork practices;
  • develop skills in collecting, handling and processing archaeological data in a manner that reflects contemporary professional and specialist practice in archaeology;
  • employ a wide range of technical and research skills involved in practical archaeology;
  • investigate, synthesise and analyse issues in Australian archaeology, cultural heritage management, conservation and professional archaeological practice and be able to apply this knowledge to a wide range of practical situations;

Last updated: 19 September 2024