Admission requirements
Admission to the RMSc-programme Bioarchaeology.
Description
The scientific method is an important approach in modern archaeology in general, and it is at the heart of archaeological science in particular. Hypotheses, theory, experiments, observations, data, as well as data manipulation, presentation and interpretation are key elements in the process of understanding our past.
This introductory course intends to provide an overview of key concepts and methods used in the archaeological sciences, among them:
Applied statistics
Absolute and relative dating methods
Chemical analysis
Palaeoecological analysis
Analysis of human remains and diet
Spatial analysis
Each class will discuss the theory and practice of one of these methods and illustrate it with recent case studies.
Course objectives
At the end of this course, students will be able to understand the scientific approach to archaeological research:
to investigate appropriate methodologies applied to specific research questions;
to assess the type and quality of data generated;
to present and analyse scientific data;
to interpret different types of scientific data;
to understand the limitations of different types of scientific data;
to build and assess testable hypotheses;
to relate different scientific approaches to a broader academic debate.
Timetable
Course schedule details can be found in the RMA and RMSc time schedule.
Mode of instruction
Lectures that include an introductory content, exemplified by relevant case studies. To be prepared by the students by reading assignments.
Course load
6x2 hours hours of lectures (1 ec);
Reading and assignments for each lecture (2 ec);
Final essay (2 ec).
Assessment method
Weekly assignments (50%);
Final essay of 2,500 words (50%).
All assessment deadlines (exams, retakes, paper deadlines etc.) can be found in the RMA and RMSc examination schedule.
Reading list
To be announced.
Registration
Registration for the course or the exam is not required.
Contact
For more information about this course, please contact prof. dr. T. van Kolfschoten.
Remarks
Compulsory attendance.