NAS Part III Fundamentals in Archaeological Methods

Research & IT module

Aims:

The aim of the course is to introduce students to theories and techniques used to date archaeological sites, analyze artifacts and understand stratigraphy. The course will explore some of the basic methods and principles in archaeology as well as artifact analyses. Topics will include stratigraphy, seriation, dating techniques, typology, ceramic analysis, and zooarchaeological analysis. Hands on activities will introduce you to some of the basic concepts in archaeology. The course is taught through a combination of presentations and practical instruction.

The course is aimed at both divers and non-divers, anthropology students, individuals undertaking the NAS Training program, together with professional archaeologists wanting to expand their knowledge of archaeological documentation techniques.

Course outline:

Site Stratigraphy

Frequency Seriation

Stylistic Seriation

Teaching Outcomes:

By the end of the course participants will understand the methods used by archaeologists to learn about, and reconstruct the past. Participants will gain insight into how archaeologists date artifacts and archaeological sites, and how they make sense of the data they gather in their work. These skills can be applied to research in nautical and underwater archaeology.

Cost and Credits:

A maximum of 3.5 credit points will be available in the Research & IT module. The cost for the course is $150.00. Part III courses are open to everyone; however credit points will only be awarded to those who have completed the NAS Part I Course.

Suggested Reading:

Archaeology Underwater, The NAS Guide to Principles and Practice. A Bowens(ed). 2008. Blackwell, London

Gamble, C. (2007). Archaeology: The basics. Hoboken: Taylor & Francis.

Renfrew, C., & Bahn, P. G. (2005). Archaeology: The key concepts. New York; London: Routledge.

Course Instructor: Dr. Mark Schwartz