Introduction to Archaeology: Knowing The Past from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Knowing The Past

Welcome to Introduction to Knowing The Past! Learn from experienced archaeologists about the science behind archaeological research and the tools used to interpret the past. Discover how archaeology contributes to our understanding of the world today. By the end of the course, you'll have a solid foundation in the principles of archaeology. Join us on this exciting journey through the fascinating world of archaeology!

Background Information About The Discipline of Archaeology

Hey there! Are you curious about how we learn about the past? In this course, you'll meet archaeologists from all over the world and learn how they use scientific techniques to help us draw conclusions about what life was like for people in the past. We will also Learn about Archaeology's role in Anthropology, past approaches, and more. Come join us on this exciting journey!

Coursera Series Overview

Welcome to Knowing the Past, Rice University's the Overview! In this module, we'll provide important general background information on archaeology and help you get set up for success as you move through the following three courses. These courses cover Archaeology as Science, Archaeology as Reconstruction of the Past, and Archaeology as Activism. While we recommend taking them in order, you have the option to take them individually. By the end of the series, you'll have a comprehensive overview of what archaeology is today, and we'll provide you with resources to help you navigate the rest of the series. Let's get started!

The Final Dig ⛏️

Hello there! The Final Dig ⛏️ is the last module of each course, where you get to put all of your skills and knowledge into practice. It includes a discussion, a final assessment, a graded Peer Review self-evaluation, and a closing video. It's a moment of truth and an excellent opportunity to showcase your learning. You've done a fantastic job so far, and I'm sure you'll do great on the Final Dig ⛏️!

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches basics in preparation for later courses, which is helpful for building a strong foundation in the discipline

Introduces learners to archaeological research, tools, and methods, which prepares them for further exploration in the field

Suitable for learners at various stages, from high school students to those with advanced knowledge, which makes it accessible to a wide audience

Provides background information on the discipline of archaeology, its history, and its role in anthropology, which lays a solid foundation for understanding the field

Emphasizes the scientific nature of archaeology, which ensures that learners gain a rigorous understanding of the discipline

Covers a range of topics within archaeology, including knowing the past, archaeological methods, and contemporary social issues, which provides a comprehensive overview of the field

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: Knowing The Past with these activities:

Compile a Glossary of Archaeological Terms

Show steps

Enhance your understanding of archaeological terminology by compiling a comprehensive glossary, solidifying your grasp of key concepts and their definitions.

Show steps

Review course material and identify unfamiliar terms.
Use online resources or dictionaries to research and define the terms.
Create a digital or physical glossary for easy reference.

Explore Archaeology: An Introduction

Show steps

Delve into a comprehensive overview of archaeological principles and methods, enhancing your understanding of the field's practices and techniques.

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

Show steps

Read selected chapters that align with the course modules.
Take notes on key concepts, theories, and case studies.
Summarize the main ideas presented in each chapter.

Join Study Groups for Collaborative Learning

Show steps

Engage in collaborative learning by joining study groups, sharing insights, discussing course material, and collectively reinforcing your understanding.

Show steps

Connect with classmates through online forums or social media.
Form or join study groups with peers who share similar learning goals.
Schedule regular study sessions to discuss course material.
Take turns leading discussions and presenting summaries.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Unlock Archaeology Techniques with Online Tutorials

Show steps

Enhance your comprehension of archaeological methods and techniques by exploring interactive online tutorials, reinforcing your knowledge through practical applications.

Show steps

Identify online platforms or resources offering tutorials on archaeological methods.
Select tutorials that cover topics relevant to the course modules.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step, practicing the techniques.

Practice Archaeological Analysis with Case Studies

Show steps

Develop your analytical skills by working through archaeological case studies, applying your knowledge to real-world scenarios and refining your interpretation abilities.

Show steps

Access online repositories or textbooks that provide archaeological case studies.
Select case studies relevant to the course modules.
Analyze the data presented in the case studies.
Draw conclusions and interpret the findings.

Volunteer at Local Archaeological Sites

Show steps

Gain invaluable hands-on experience by volunteering at archaeological sites, applying your knowledge in a practical setting and contributing to ongoing research.

Show steps

Reach out to local archaeological organizations or museums.
Inquire about volunteer opportunities and requirements.
Attend training sessions and follow safety protocols.
Participate in archaeological activities under the guidance of experts.

Develop a Presentation on an Archaeological Topic

Show steps

Demonstrate your understanding of archaeological concepts by creating a presentation on a topic of your choice, showcasing your research, analysis, and communication skills.

Show steps

Select an archaeological topic that interests you.
Conduct thorough research using credible sources.
Organize your research into a logical structure.
Create visual aids to support your presentation.
Practice delivering your presentation.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Archaeology: Knowing The Past 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 provides a solid foundation in the principles of archaeology, which would be helpful for anyone interested in pursuing a career in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archaeologist

Museum curator

Museum curators are responsible for planning and managing museum collections. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in working in a museum setting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

Anthropologist

Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in anthropology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Anthropologist

Archivist

Archivists are responsible for managing and preserving historical records. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in archival science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist

Historian

Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in history.

See salaries and explore the career path for Historian

Teacher

Teachers help people learn. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in teaching.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Lawyer

Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in law.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

Journalist

Journalists write, edit, and publish news stories. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in journalism.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Librarian

Librarians help people find and access information. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in library science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Librarian

Data Analyst

Data analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in data analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Business Analyst

Business analysts help organizations improve their performance. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in business analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts help businesses make investment decisions. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in financial analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Management Consultant

Management consultants help organizations improve their performance. This course would provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in management consulting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant

Sales Manager

Sales managers lead and motivate sales teams. This course may provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in sales.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager

Marketing Manager

Marketing managers develop and implement marketing campaigns. This course may provide a helpful overview of the field of archaeology, which would be beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in marketing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Introduction to Archaeology

Knowing The Past

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

Save this course

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses