Module overview
How do archaeologists find sites, gather data and proceed to make sense of archaeological traces? This module provides a detailed introduction to fieldwork methods and analysis, covering site prospection techniques (e.g., aerial photography and geophysical survey), the basics of environmental and maritime archaeology, the study of standing buildings, scientific dating techniques and excavation. The content is delivered through a combination of lectures and weekly practical sessions.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Critically evaluate field methods and field-based data described in archaeological reports.
- Critically evaluate archaeological knowledge claims based on fieldwork.
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Archaeological fieldwork and recording methods.
- How archaeological resources may be discovered.
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Understand the principles of surveying terrestrial and underwater sites and landscapes.
- Understand principles of radiometric dating.
- Understand the principles of geophysical survey.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Present diverse work as a portfolio.
Syllabus
This module introduces you to the main field and laboratory techniques of practical archaeology. These include regional and site survey methods, the principles of excavation, dating techniques, environmental reconstruction and sampling, and the special requirements of underwater archaeology.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Laboratory sessions (practicals)
- Demonstrations
Learning activities include:
- Self-Study
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 12 |
| Completion of assessment task | 88 |
| Wider reading or practice | 15 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 20 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 15 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Barker, P. (1993). Techniques of Archaeological Excavation. London: Routledge.
Hester, T., Shafer, H.J. and Feder, K.L. (1997). Field Methods in Archaeology. U.S.A.: Mayfield Publishing Co..
Renfrew, C. and Bahn, P. (2016). Archaeology: Theories, Methods and Practice. London: Thames & Hudson.
Drewett, P (2000). Field Archaeology. London: UCL Press.
Greene, K. (2010). Archaeology: An Introduction. London: Routledge.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Assessments designed to provide informal, on-module feedback.
Discussions during laboratory work, classes and demonstrations.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Portfolio assignments | 50% |
| Essay | 50% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Essay | 50% |
| Portfolio of Learning | 50% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External