Module ARCH3362: ARCHAEOLOGY DISSERTATION (40 CREDITS)

Department: Archaeology

ARCH3362: ARCHAEOLOGY DISSERTATION (40 CREDITS)

Tied To

• F400: Archaeology
• F402: Archaeology

Pre-requisites

Corequisites

Excluded Combinations

Aims

• To significantly develop students' skills in independent research, the analysis and presentation of evidence and the structuring of argumentation by producing an extended (12,000 words) dissertation in a selected specialist area of archaeology.

Content

• The student will undertake an extended piece of supervised independent research and investigate in depth the approved topic using an appropriate range of practical, laboratory and/or field techniques and produce a well-argued and presented report.

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the module students will have:
• Developed and researched a significant topic in archaeology.
• Developed a deep knowledge of a specialist area of archaeology capable of reasonably complete treatment within the given word limit.

• Production of a detailed research-led archaeological report, using a range of core practical and interpretative skills (including analytical, laboratory or field skills).
• Undertaking of research in and reporting on a specific area of archaeology, applying the transferable skills listed below.

• Undertaking independent study and research.
• Development and execution of a programme of primary research.
• Sampling, collection, recording and critical analysis of primary and secondary data as the result of accessing library, museum, archive and/or WWW resources.
• Preparation and effective communication of research methods, data, results, interpretations and arguments written and visual form.
• Use of computer and/or information technology, and
• Time management.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The module is taught through self-guided learning.
• It is assessed through a written dissertation.
• Tutorials will focus on discussion and feedback between a tutor and student, in a relatively informal learning environment, enabling the student to enhance, discuss, question and receive feedback on their knowledge and to gain experience in oral communication.
• Self-guided learning comprises personal study, research, revision and evaluation associated with tutorials and assignments; guided by lecturers, tutors and reading lists of specialist books, articles and web-sites.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment

Progress report/draft chapter 3,000 words, early in Epiphany term.