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Introduction to Archaeology

Archaeology as Science

Molly Morgan

This course is the second in a series on the discipline of Archaeology. It is intended for learners at all stages, including advanced high school, college students, or life-long learners. Basic information about Archaeology and its history are presented in the previous introductory course. This course covers scientific methods commonly used by archaeologists. The following two courses teach about forms of interpretation and contemporary social issues that archaeologists engage with.

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Syllabus

Introduction

Welcome to "Archaeology as Science" course! Here, we'll explore how archaeologists use scientific methods to uncover the mysteries of the past. From excavation to remote sensing, we'll dive into the tools and techniques they use to reconstruct past behaviors and understand human settlement patterns. Join us on this fascinating journey into the world of archaeology!

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Covers scientific methods commonly used by archaeologists, which is standard in archaeology

Taught by Molly Morgan, who are recognized for their work in the field of archaeology

Examines scientific methods commonly used by archaeologists, which is highly relevant in academia

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Reviews summary

Scientific methods in archaeology: a foundational course

According to students, this course provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific methods central to archaeology, making it a strong theoretical foundation. Learners found the modules on specific areas like the science of human diet, living spaces, and landscape archaeology to be particularly engaging topics. The structured progression, as the second in a series, makes it suitable for beginners while also preparing students for further studies. Some notes suggest that while the breadth is appreciated, the pace might vary for individuals depending on their prior knowledge and interest in specific scientific techniques covered.

Balances scientific depth and accessibility for all learners.

"The course provided enough scientific detail to be truly informative without overwhelming someone like me, who's a lifelong learner."

"While the focus is academic, the explanations make it approachable even if you don't have a strong science background."

"I appreciated the scientific grounding, but it might be too theoretical for those seeking more practical, hands-on archaeology."

Entry point for new learners and basis for advanced study.

"As someone new to archaeology, this course was perfectly paced and explained complex scientific concepts clearly."

"It builds well on the introductory course and seamlessly prepares you for the next steps in the specialization."

"I feel confident moving forward with more advanced archaeological topics after completing this solid scientific introduction."

Modules explore human history through captivating examples.

"The module on the history of living spaces, especially the plantation house, was incredibly thought-provoking and historically rich."

"Understanding the science of human diet and its cultural significance revealed so much about ancient societies and their adaptations."

"I found the focus on how human diets relate to environmental shifts and cultural evolution particularly insightful and well-explained."

Covers diverse scientific techniques used in archaeology.

"I appreciated the wide range of scientific techniques presented, from excavation to dating methods, providing a solid foundation."

"The course clearly outlines how various scientific disciplines, like paleoenvironments and stable isotopes, contribute to archaeological research."

"It's fascinating to learn about so many scientific approaches, including remote sensing and landscape studies, that archaeologists apply."

Many topics covered; pacing may vary for learners.

"The breadth of topics was great, but I felt some modules could have gone into greater depth given the time allocated."

"Sometimes, it felt like we moved through complex scientific methods a bit quickly, requiring extra personal research."

"While comprehensive, the rapid introduction to so many techniques meant I sometimes wished for more examples or practical applications."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Archaeology : Archaeology as Science with these activities:

Read 'Introduction to Archaeology' by Colin Renfrew and Paul Bahn

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Gain a broad understanding of archaeology and its key concepts by reading this foundational text.

View Archaeology Essentials: Theories, Methods, and... on Amazon

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Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes on important concepts
Complete the review questions at the end of each chapter
Summarize the main arguments and findings of the book

Review basic archaeological field techniques

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Review the basics of archaeological field techniques to ensure you have a strong foundation for the course.

Browse courses on Archaeological Fieldwork

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Review textbooks and articles on archaeological fieldwork
Complete online tutorials on excavation techniques
Attend a workshop on field survey techniques

Create a digital notebook for your archaeological notes and readings

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Stay organized and reinforce your learning by creating a digital notebook for your archaeological notes and readings.

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Use a note-taking app or software to create a new notebook
Add sections for different topics covered in the course
Take notes during lectures and while reading assigned materials

Five other activities

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Volunteer at a local archaeological museum or excavation site

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Gain hands-on experience and contribute to the archaeological community by volunteering.

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Find a local archaeological museum or excavation site that offers volunteer opportunities
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer positions
Attend training and orientation sessions
Participate in archaeological activities under the supervision of experienced professionals

Discuss archaeological theories and methods with classmates

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Engage in peer discussions to deepen your understanding of archaeological theories and methods.

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Join a study group or online forum dedicated to archaeology
Participate in discussions on archaeological theories and methods
Share your own insights and perspectives

Learn how to use GIS for archaeology

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Enhance your ability to analyze spatial data by learning how to use GIS software.

Browse courses on Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

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Enroll in an online tutorial or workshop on GIS for archaeology
Follow the instructions and complete the exercises
Apply your newfound GIS skills to an archaeological project

Write a blog post about a recent archaeological discovery

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Demonstrate your understanding of archaeological research by writing a blog post about a recent discovery.

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Research a recent archaeological discovery
Write a blog post that explains the discovery in clear and concise language
Share your blog post with others

Participate in an archaeological research competition

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Test your skills and knowledge by participating in an archaeological research competition.

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Find an archaeological research competition to participate in
Develop a research proposal
Conduct your research and write a report
Submit your report to the competition

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Archaeology : Archaeology as Science will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Archaeologist

Archaeologists study past peoples and cultures by excavating and examining material remains. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by archaeologists, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help archaeologists to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archaeologist

Museum curator

Museum Curators are responsible for planning and managing environmental control over museum collections. They also conduct instructional, research, or public service activities of the institution. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used to preserve and study artifacts, which is essential for Museum Curators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

Anthropologist

Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by anthropologists, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help anthropologists to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past and present.

See salaries and explore the career path for Anthropologist

Historian

Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by historians, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help historians to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Historian

Paleontologist

Paleontologists study the history of life on Earth by examining fossils. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by paleontologists, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help paleontologists to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Paleontologist

Geologist

Geologists study the Earth's physical structure and history. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by geologists, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help geologists to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geologist

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and how it affects humans. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by environmental scientists, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help environmental scientists to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Geographer

Geographers study the Earth's surface and human activity on it. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by geographers, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help geographers to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geographer

Soil Scientist

Soil Scientists study the soil and its properties. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by soil scientists, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help soil scientists to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Soil Scientist

Agronomist

Agronomists study the production of crops and soils. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by agronomists, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help agronomists to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agronomist

Archaeological Technician

Archaeological Technicians assist archaeologists with the excavation and analysis of archaeological sites. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by archaeological technicians, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help archaeological technicians to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archaeological Technician

Museum Technician

Museum Technicians assist museum curators with the preservation and display of museum collections. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by museum technicians, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help museum technicians to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum Technician

Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technicians assist scientists with the analysis of data and the preparation of scientific reports. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by laboratory technicians, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help laboratory technicians to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Laboratory Technician

Research Assistant

Research Assistants assist researchers with the collection and analysis of data. This course can help build a foundation in the scientific methods used by research assistants, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help research assistants to better understand the behavior, lifeways, and settlement patterns of humans in the past.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research Assistant

Teacher

Teachers instruct students in a variety of academic subjects. This course may be useful for teachers who are interested in teaching about archaeology. The course can help teachers to better understand the scientific methods used by archaeologists, such as excavation, remote sensing, and data analysis. This knowledge can help teachers to better engage their students in the study of archaeology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Archaeology : Archaeology as Science.

Graphing Culture Change in North American...

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This comprehensive handbook provides a wide-ranging overview of archaeological theories, from traditional approaches to contemporary perspectives. It offers a valuable resource for learners who seek to explore the theoretical foundations of the discipline.

Introduction to Archaeology

Archaeology as Science

Two deals to help you save

What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Scientific methods in archaeology: a foundational course

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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