Archaeology: Theory & Practice
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| CLAR2011 | Classics and Archaeology | 2 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- CLAR2011
- School
- Classics and Archaeology
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
Archaeological theory and practice are interconnected at the heart of our discipline. Our practice is the creation of knowledge through the rigorous and systematic analysis of material remains. We use theory to formulate research questions and interpret those remains. In this module we focus on the interrelationship between ideas, interpretive approaches and analytical frameworks in the design and implementation of archaeology.
Target Students
Available to Undergraduate level 2 Archaeology students including Liberal Arts, Natural Sciences and exchange students. Not available to subsidiary students.
Classes
- One 1-hour seminar each week for 10 weeks
- Two 1-hour lectures each week for 10 weeks
Assessment
- 80% Coursework: Archaeological interpretation assessment 2500 words
- 20% Class Test 1: 1 hour ExamSys test, multiple choice 20 questions
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
This module aims to introduce students to the theoretical foundations of archaeology and the principles and practice of archaeological research. The module examines the history of Archaeology and its ideological context, exploring core theoretical paradigms and laying emphasis on their effects in archaeological research. Students will also further their own intellectual development and skills as independent researchers in preparation for their third-year research project.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
•Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of the historical development of archaeological theory, and critically evaluate the intellectual and ideological contexts which affect theoretical debates.
•Recognise the influence theoretical debate has on professional activity and research agendas in archaeology.
Intellectual
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
•Identify and discuss theoretical concepts and frameworks and begin to appreciate how theoretical principles apply in their own intellectual development.
•Appreciate the links between theory and practice in archaeological research and develop their own research interests and independent learning skills.
•Order and present archaeological data, concepts and frameworks cogently and effectively, in both written and oral communication.
Transferable (Key) skills
Key skills promoted include:
•Skills in constructing and expressing arguments related to data, concepts and frameworks in written form, and IT skills.