Module overview
The extraction and characterization of ancient molecules and the measurement of stable and radioactive isotopes has revolutionized archaeology over the past two decades and remains at the cutting edge of archaeological science. From the the identification of chemical signatures of past foods to the ability to track an individual's movement on a month by month basis, new pictures of the past are emerging as a result of archaeology at the atomic and molecular level. This module aims to give you an understanding of these cutting edge techniques and their application, along with an ability to critically appraise their results.
Linked modules
ARCH1047
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Develop advanced skills in data analysis and interpretation.
- Critically assess scientific data, techniques and your application to the archaeological record.
- Integration of qualitative and quantitative data into coherent presentations and reports.
- Handling, integration and evaluation of data sets of multi-disciplinary origin.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Present the results of both qualitative and quantitative data in a publishable format.
- Critically assess and synthesise data from a combination of qualitative and quantitative sources
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- DNA extraction and analysis techniques for archaeological research.
- The use of isotopic evidence for palaeoclimate reconstruction and archaeological interpretation.
- The significance of isotopic analysis for dietary reconstruction
- Current debates within archaeological science.
- The role of isotopes in understanding mobility and migration in human and animal populations.
Syllabus
This module will advance your knowledge of molecular approaches within archaeology. The module content has been split into five main themes; dating, diet, chronology, climate and trace element analysis.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include:
- Lectures
Laboratory Practicals
- Field trips to key archaeological laboratories (e.g. NOCS).
- Seminars
Learning activities include:
- Integrated problem orientated assessment via seminar discussions, laboratory sessions, student presentations and reports.
- Thought exercises – you will be given specific archaeological problems to consider, develop a research strategy and report to the group.
Innovative or special features of this module:
Integrated industry-based and academic learning environment Trips to leading laboratories
Type | Hours |
---|---|
External visits | 4 |
Preparation for scheduled sessions | 14 |
Wider reading or practice | 20 |
Revision | 20 |
Lecture | 12 |
Seminar | 6 |
Practical classes and workshops | 6 |
Follow-up work | 6 |
Completion of assessment task | 62 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Brothwell, D.R. and Pollard, A.M. (2001). Handbook of Archaeological Sciences. Chichester: John Wiley.
Marshner, H.D.G. & Chippendale, C. (2005). Handbook of Archaeological Methods Vols 1 and 2. Lanham: Altamira Press.
Brown, T. and K. Brown (2011). Biomolecular archaeology: an introduction (sections 4, 6, 12, and 13). Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Formative
This module has been designed around providing substantial amounts of formative feedback within the classroom environment. This will be delivered in two main formats; one feedback via in-class discussion based around case studies and, two, formative feedback on a presentation given in class (on which you will base your project design).
The summative assessment for this module is split in two. The first part (project design) is a problem- orientated task. Here, you will be split into groups, given an archaeological site/question and asked to devise a research design and scientific strategy to answer a question pertinent to one of the techniques explored in previous lectures. The group presentation will not be formally assessed, but will provide an opportunity for staff to feedback on your ideas. You will then write up your project design and submit for assessment.
The second assessment relies on a traditional exam. This has been put in place to assess the consolidation of your knowledge and your ability to apply in a range of different circumstance.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Scientific report | 70% |
Seminar | 30% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Scientific report | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External