Constructing the human past

This minor is intended for undergraduate students of non-Archaeology disciplines, who wish to gain insight in the theoretical framework and methodology of archeological research.
It offers an introduction into methodology and theoretical concepts in archaeology, and is fully taught in English. After finishing the minor you will have gained insight in the way in which archaeological data are derived, and how these data are used to construct theoretical models that aim to understand the human past. All courses listed are part of the undergraduate programme in Archaeology.

Learning outcomes:

• Basic knowledge of the acquisition of archaeological data and understanding the limitations of this type of data;

• Introduction in the archaeological methodology, both in theory and in practice;

• Introduction in the analysis of archaeological materials, both in theory and in practice;

• To understand how archaeological data can be interpreted in a regional context;

• Knowledge of the main theoretical concepts used in the archaeology;

• Understanding implications as well as limitations of these theoretical models.

Programme

The programme starts with 2 introductions in the methodology of archaeological data sampling, including practicals. These courses are at BA1 and BA2 level. Next, the student can opt for a focus in which we show how such analyses lead to understanding and constructing the human past.
The second part of the minor focuses on concepts and case studies in different regions (Europe or the Caribbean and Near East) at BA2 and BA3 level.
All courses are scheduled in the first semester of 2016-2017.

For more information, please contact mw. dr. J.A. Mol, Faculty of Archaeology Programme Director.