Module ARCH3611: SCIENTIFIC METHODS IN ARCHAEOLOGY 3*

Department: Archaeology

ARCH3611: SCIENTIFIC METHODS IN ARCHAEOLOGY 3*

Prerequisites

• Scientific Methods in Archaeology 2 (ARCH2041).

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• * All modules marked with this symbol form part of an Accredited CIfA pathway
• To develop a critical approach for the use of scientific techniques in archaeology.
• To acquire skills in assessing the scientific and archaeological limitations of techniques and their application, and to examine the latest developments in major techniques.
• To enable students to engage with current debates and research in contemporary archaeological science.

Content

• The teaching of this module is based on a series of workshops (seminar format) on themes which are selected on the basis of relevance to the most recent archaeological debates.
• A theme lecture will be given to introduce the topic followed by a two hour workshop.
• Several students will each present on a selected topic within the theme.
• Those students not presenting will lead the discussion concerning the papers given.
• The teacher will serve as a rapporteur and provide guidance in identifying the key points arising from the workshop.
• Those giving a presentation will be required to submit a written paper.

Learning Outcomes

• Critical knowledge of the use of scientific techniques in archaeology.
• Identify the technical and ethical standards relevant to archaeological science research.

• Assessing the scientific archaeological uses and limitations of techniques, procedures and their application.

• Development of research and essay writing.
• Constructively critical evaluation.
• Identify and evaluate sources of information for their potential contribution to the research.
• Communication skills through presentations and discussions in workshops.
• Research writing skills.
• Small group work in workshops.

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

• The teaching of this module is based on a series of workshops (seminar format) on themes that are selected on the basis of relevance to the most recent archaeological debates.
• A themed lecture will be given to introduce a topic, present information, ideas, and views on research within the broader theme. Lectures may consist of pre-recorded videaos and/or live presentations from tutors, and integrate break-out discussions, study exercises and other learning activities as appropriate to the material covered from week to week.
• Lectures will be followed a week later by a two-hour, student-led workshop. The teacher will serve as a rapporteur and provide guidance in identifying the key points arising from the workshop.
• The final seminar will be a reflective discussion about the themes and learning outcomes of the module, and feedback to prepare students for submitting the second part of the summative portfolio.
• The summative portfolio of work will consist of overviews of the workshops from two of the three topics covered in each term, assessing the students' detailed understanding of the chosen topic, their research writing skills and their critical evaluation skills in archaeological science.
• Research is embedded into the teaching of this module through the expertise of the lecturers and tutors. The examples and topics chosen within the curriculum are closely aligned with the specialist research interests and experience of the staff teaching the module. Elements of the teaching cover topics at the frontiers of knowledge and this allows students to be trained in current, critical approaches to understanding and interpreting archaeological research.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Formative assessment may include a range of quizzes, short answer tests and other short assignments related to the learning outcomes of the module.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University