Admission requirements
None.
Description
Scientific methods, techniques and approaches are becoming increasingly important in modern archaeology in general, and it is at the heart of archaeological science in particular.
This course will cover some of the basic material about the biotic and abiotic world that forms the framework in which research in archaeological sciences are carried out.
We will present topics that are core for understanding the archaeological records, including: principles of evolution, ecological theory, dating methods, analytical techniques, stratigraphy, and taphonomy.
Course set-up
The course will be organised around lectures, quizzes to test your understanding of these themes and their application in archaeology, and the preparation of an unessay / portfolio to more deeply explore a relevant question in archaeological sciences.
Course objectives
By the end of this course, the student will be able to:
Identify which dating methods are appropriate in which archaeological contexts;
Explain how stratigraphy allows us to interpret archaeological sites;
Give an overview of taphonomic effects on the archaeological record;
Characterise the principles of evolution and drivers of natural selection and how they are relevant for archaeology;
Paraphrase how ecological theory is relevant for understanding human behavior in the past;
Describe various biomolecules, their relevance for archaeology and the means by which they are examined.
Timetable
Course schedule details can be found in MyTimetable.
Log in with your ULCN account, and add this course using the 'Add timetable' button.
Mode of instruction
Lectures that present data, paired with essential readings on individual topics;
Quizzes are used to assess knowledge;
Unessay / Portfolio: Explore an archaeological science question in a non-essay format. Examples include creating an infographic, preparing a poster, designing an experiment, making an instructional video, preparing a demonstration for the public, gamifiying of archaeology.
Assessment method
Unessay / Portfolio (50%);
Weekly Quizzes (50%).
The average grade of all the quizzes should be at least a 5.0, and the unessay should be at least a 5.0 in order to pass the course.
If the average grade for the quizzes is below 5.0, then all of the quizzes must be retaken.
The unessay / portfolio can be retaken.
Assessment deadlines:
The dates of exams and retakes can be found in MyTimetable. The deadlines of papers, essays and assignments are communicated through Brightspace.
Reading list
To be announced.
Registration
Enrolment for all components of your study programme through MyStudymap is mandatory. This applies to both compulsory elements and elective credits. If you are not enrolled, you may not participate.
General information about registration can be found on the Course and exam enrolment page.
Exchange and Study Abroad students, please contact the exchange coordinator for information on how to apply.
Contact
For more information about this course, please contact dr. A.G. (Amanda) Henry or Dr. Rachel Schats.
Remarks
Compulsory attendance.