Understanding archaeology ADED1616E

  • Academic Session: 2024-25
  • School: Short Courses
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 1 (SCQF level 7)
  • Typically Offered: Summer
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No

Short Description

How does progress in archaeology affect the study of the past? This course introduces the theory, practice and responsibilities of the archaeological exploration of the past in the present day. Using real-life examples as case studies, we will explore issues and controversies affecting archaeologists through time.

Timetable

2 hours per week for 10 weeks

Block 3: Wednesday, 19.00-21.00

Requirements of Entry

None

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

1 worksheet (completed during class time) - Week 5 (30%)

 1 essay (1200-1400 words) - Week 7 - (60%)

1 presentation (student's choice of topic; may be based on essay) - Week 10 - 10%.

Course Aims

This course aims to encourage in students an appreciation of a variety of themes and issues in archaeology, some of which will be based on real-life case studies which have been in the media. It also aims to give students an overview of how archaeology as a discipline has developed over time, covering technological and theoretical developments as well as evolutions like fringe archaeology.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of the course students should be able to:
1. analyse the relevance of archaeology to contemporary society;
2. identify and evaluate current issues that impact on archaeological practices;
3. critically assess the factors that influence our interpretation and understanding of the
archaeological record.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.