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  3. Introduction to Archaeological Science

Introduction to Archaeological Science (ERTH90062)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5Not available in 2024

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Overview

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Archaeological science is an intersection of natural sciences and cultural heritage that covers a wide range of examples of interdisciplinary scientific applications to archaeological and cultural heritage questions. This subject will introduce students to the key knowledge and theoretical frameworks essential for archaeological science studies and form the foundation for further studies in the area. Key geoscience-based areas to be discussed include dating and chronometry methods, compositional analysis, analytical approaches, provenance, isotopic analysis, and experimental archaeology. The cultural focus will be on Indigenous and Australian archaeology, as well as input from related studies from world archaeological science. The subject will also examine the relationship of past societies to current societies.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Identify and apply geological knowledge to solve archaeological science questions.
  • Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the theoretical context of a key research question in archaeological science.
  • Compare and contrast selected research methodologies as applied to questions such as dating, provenance and other archaeological science questions.
  • Apply archaeological science with an ethical comprehension of cultural heritage and working with communities.
  • Demonstrate critical evaluation and thinking in archaeological science in written and oral formats.

Generic skills

  • ability to exercise critical judgement;
  • rigorous and independent thinking;
  • adopting a problem-solving approach to new or unfamiliar tasks;
  • ability to prepare quality written reports and give succinct oral presentations.

Last updated: 31 January 2024