Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

Archaeological Science (AS) is the application of scientific methods to the study of the human past. In the last few decades, archaeologists have employed a wide range of scientific methods to research problems including human evolution, chronology, climate, the environment, health, diet, technology, mobility, the manufacture and exchange of goods, and many, many more. The module introduces some of the main problems that archaeologists address using scientific methods of enquiry, as well as the methods themselves. It also shows how scientific and non-scientific methods of enquiry can work together to enhance our understanding of the past. Case studies ranging from prehistory to historical times, small group lab practicals, and tutorials will help you familiarise with this fast-growing branch of archaeology. Given its introductory nature, the module does not require any scientific knowledge as a background.
The aims of the module are:
- To introduce the principal scientific methods used today in archaeology (except field methods)
- To enable students to place archaeological science within the wider field of archaeology
- To foster an understanding of science as an essential tool for addressing social problems in archaeology
- To encourage students to develop an area of interest in specific aspects of archaeological science

Outline Of Syllabus

Topics may include:
- Relative and absolute dating methods
- Environmental archaeology: plants and people
- Geoarchaeology and sedimentology
- Zooarchaeology
- Bioarchaeology
- Biomolecular archaeology
- Mobility and exchange studies (people and artefacts)
- Ancient technologies and materials science
- Statistical applications to archaeology

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

In successfully completing the course, students will be able to:
- Identify the principal archaeological questions that can be addressed through scientific methods
- Identify the principal scientific methods used in contemporary archaeological practice and appraise their most common applications
- Critically evaluate strengths and limitations of the scientific methods examined during the module

Intended Skill Outcomes

- Comprehending and appropriately using scientific terminology in archaeology
- Introducing lab H&S and code of conduct
- Enhancing students' critical thinking and team working through lab practicals and formative assignments
- Enhancing students' critical thinking and writing skills through summative assignments

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

- Lectures provide an introduction to the archaeological problems and scientific methods discussed through the module.
- 1h and 2h laboratory practicals provide hands-on opportunities to learn and practice the scientific methods introduced in the lectures.
- Workshops (tutorials) provide assignment preparation support and structured Q&A time.
- Structured guided learning including weekly reading, videos, and revision quizzes provide further Canvas-based learning opportunities to students.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

- Essay #1 evaluates students' understanding of relative and absolute dating methods as well as their ability to discuss these methods critically.
- The Digital Exam evaluates students' knowledge and understanding of all the other main subjects and scientific methods covered by the module.
- Weekly formative Canvas quizzes provide opportunities to revise the topics introduced in the classroom/lab and prepare for the assessed quiz.

General Notes

Recommended textbook: Renfrew, C. & P. Bahn. 2020. Archaeology: Theories, Methods, and Practice, 8th edition. London: Thames & Hudson.