Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology from FutureLearn

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is suitable for anyone intrigued by forensic archaeology and anthropology. The course is specifically designed for forensic, crime scene, and police practitioners who require training in anthropological and archaeological techniques. It will be useful for undergraduate forensics students or those interested in studying forensic archaeology and anthropology at university. It may also be useful to those working in legal and human rights contexts who require an understanding of forensic methods. You can use the hashtag #ForArchAnth to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Body location and recovery in forensic contexts
Osteoprofiling (skeletal analysis of sex, age-at-death, stature)
Identification of pathology and trauma
Latest developments in biomolecular techniques
Taphonomic processes (decomposition and commingling of human remains)
Forensic case studies (e.g. post-conflict regions, mass disasters)

Reviews summary

Forensic archaeology: a rigorous foundational course

According to learners, "Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology" is a largely well-received course, offering a rigorous and excellent foundation in the field. Students particularly praise the depth of content, expert instructors, and engaging case studies that bring theory to life. While it is seen as highly informative for both curious individuals and aspiring professionals, there's a recurring sentiment that the course is more theoretical than practical, with some wishing for more hands-on activities. There's also a mixed reception regarding its suitability for absolute beginners, with some finding it overwhelming due to assumed prior knowledge, while others found it accessible. A few also noted the presentation style could be updated.

Some found it accessible, while others felt it assumed too much prior knowledge.

"As someone completely new to the field, I found the course incredibly well-structured and easy to follow."

"It assumes a certain level of background knowledge that I didn't have, even though it claims to be for beginners."

"I struggled to keep up and ultimately didn't finish it. Needs more engaging presentation and better foundational explanations."

"Suitable for both curious individuals and aspiring professionals."

Real-world case studies enhance understanding and bring the material to life.

"The case studies were particularly gripping and brought the theory to life."

"The case studies are well-chosen and illustrate the concepts effectively."

"The detailed case studies are a highlight, showing real-world applications."

Offers rigorous, in-depth knowledge delivered by highly experienced instructors.

"The instructors were excellent, particularly Dr. Smith's insights into taphonomy."

"The depth of knowledge shared by the lecturers, who are clearly experts in their fields, was phenomenal."

"An exceptional course... It covers complex topics in an accessible way, making it suitable for both curious individuals and aspiring professionals."

"Excellent foundational course. The instructors are very knowledgeable and passionate."

Some aspects of the visual presentation and delivery could be updated.

"The course has valuable information, but the presentation style felt a bit dated. Some videos seemed like they were recorded a while ago..."

"...the graphics could be improved."

"The lectures were mostly talking heads with dense slides. I struggled to keep up..."

"The delivery could be more modern and engaging."

Provides comprehensive conceptual understanding, but less emphasis on practical application.

"As a crime scene investigator, I was hoping for more practical application or simulations."

"I would have liked more hands-on examples or virtual labs."

"It's just lectures and lectures. So boring and not useful for what I need. Better to find a hands-on workshop."

"Solid content, very informative, but perhaps slightly theoretical for practical application."

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Learners who complete Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Forensic archaeology: a rigorous foundational course

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