Introduction to Archaeology: Archaeology as Activism from Coursera

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Syllabus

Introduction to Archaeology as Activism

Hey there! Are you curious about how archaeologists can use their research to make a positive impact on communities? If so, then our fourth course in the "Introduction to Archaeology" called "Archaeology as Activism" is perfect for you! 💡 In this course, we'll explore how archaeologists work alongside communities and other groups to improve the lives of people around the world. 🌍 You'll learn about the tools and knowledge archaeologists use to conduct research that positively impacts modern communities. 🔍 So, come join us and discover how archaeology can be a powerful force for change in the world today! 🌟

Archaeology as Antiracism

Hey there! Let's explore Activism as Archaeology, where every dig site tells a story that's not just ancient history but deeply intertwined with the present. In this module, we'll explore how archaeology isn't just about uncovering artifacts; it's about understanding the social, cultural, and political contexts that shape our past and present. We will also learn to be not just passive observers of the past but active agents of change! By using archaeology as a tool for justice, we're challenging the structures of racial injustice and building a practice rooted in anti-racism. Let's unearth the past, confront the present, and shape a better future together!

Dynamic Coastal Environments of The Past and Present

Hey there! Are you interested in learning how past environmental systems can help us better understand our world today? Our study topic will delve into the fascinating realm of applied environmental archaeology, where we explore how archaeology research can inform current concerns about landscapes and climate change. Join us to discover how information about dynamic environments can be relevant and valuable for present people and explore culturally meaningful landscapes through the lens of historical research. Let's dive in!

Archaeological Sites in The Present: Cultural Heritage

Hey there! Have you ever wondered about the cultural heritage of our world?🏛️ These are the remnants of our ancestors' unique traditions, the tangible pieces of history that connect us to our shared past and must be safeguarded for generations to come. Archaeologists work with cultural heritage specialists, museum experts, public history professionals, and community groups to preserve our heritage for the future. Together, we can weave together the stories of the past, celebrate our diverse heritage, and ensure that these invaluable pieces of history remain intact for future explorers. 💼

Questioning Categories in The Past

Get ready to unlock the secrets of time in archaeology! ⏳ In this module, we'll dive deep into the fascinating world of chronology – the backbone of archaeological understanding. 🕰️ So, why is chronology so crucial? If we want to understand how and why human societies changed over time, we need to know when things happened! That's where archaeologists come in, using various techniques to construct chronologies that help us order artifacts, sites, and events in time. From relative dating techniques like stratigraphy to absolute methods such as radiocarbon dating, we'll dive into archaeologists' tools to piece together the timeline of human history. Join us as we uncover the inner workings of these methods, their data, and potential limitations. 🌟🔍

Final Dig

Congratulations on completing the fourth and final course in the Introduction to Archaeology specialization! 🎉 You have journeyed through an incredible specialization, delving deep into the fascinating world of archaeology from start to finish. 🌟 Throughout this course, we have honed our archaeological skills and reflected on the significance of our work in today's world. By embracing an ethical framework and striving to make positive impacts with our research, we have embraced the true essence of archaeology as a force for good. 💫 Whether you followed the specialization from the beginning or just joined us for this final chapter, your dedication to exploring the depths of archaeology is commendable. 🌍 Thank you for participating in this incredible past, present, and future exploration.

Good to know

Know what's good

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, and possible dealbreakers

Covers the integral role archaeologists play in improving the lives of people around the world

Explores how archaeologists work with communities and other groups to address social issues

Provides a solid foundation for understanding the basic principles and practices of archaeology

Suitable for learners of all stages, including high school students, college students, and lifelong learners

Engages learners in real-world case studies and examples

Taught by experienced instructors who are recognized for their work in archaeology

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 Activism with these activities:

Review basic statistics concepts

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Refreshes essential statistical skills necessary for analyzing and interpreting archaeological data.

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Review the basics of descriptive statistics.
Review the basics of inferential statistics.
Practice applying statistical techniques to archaeological data.

Read Archaeology: Artifacts and Historical Perspectives

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Introduces students to basic archaeological concepts and techniques, providing a foundation for understanding the material culture of past societies.

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Read the introductory chapter to get an overview of the field of archaeology.
Read Chapters 2 and 3 to learn about the different methods used by archaeologists to excavate and analyze archaeological sites.
Read Chapters 4 and 5 to learn about the different types of artifacts that archaeologists find and how they can be used to reconstruct past cultures.

Review key concepts in cultural anthropology

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Refreshes foundational knowledge in cultural anthropology, providing a strong context for understanding the cultural aspects of archaeological research.

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Review the basic concepts of cultural anthropology.
Review the different methods used by cultural anthropologists.
Read an ethnography of a non-Western culture.

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Follow online video tutorials on archaeological techniques

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Offers visual and hands-on demonstrations of archaeological excavation and analysis techniques.

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Watch videos on basic archaeological excavation techniques.
Watch videos on how to analyze archaeological artifacts.
Watch videos on how to write archaeological reports.

Participate in study group discussions

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Facilitates collaboration and knowledge exchange with peers, fostering a deeper understanding of archaeological concepts.

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Join a study group for the course.
Attend regular study sessions.
Participate actively in discussions.

Complete study guide exercises

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Provides opportunities to test understanding of key concepts and develop critical thinking skills in archaeology.

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Answer the review questions at the end of each chapter.
Complete the practice exercises in the study guide.
Write a short essay on a topic related to archaeology.

Develop an archaeological research proposal

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Encourages students to apply their knowledge to design an original research project that addresses a specific archaeological question.

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Identify a research question.
Develop a research design.
Write a research proposal.

Volunteer at a local archaeological dig

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Provides hands-on experience in archaeological excavation and analysis, reinforcing the theoretical knowledge gained in the course.

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Contact local archaeological organizations to find volunteer opportunities.
Attend training sessions to learn basic excavation techniques.
Participate in archaeological excavations under the supervision of experienced archaeologists.

Career center

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

Archaeologist

Archaeologists study past peoples and cultures by excavating and analyzing material remains. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with cultural heritage specialists, museum experts, public history professionals, and community groups to preserve cultural heritage for the future.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archaeologist

Museum curator

Museum curators are responsible for the care and display of museum collections. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with museum staff to create exhibits that are relevant and engaging to the public.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

Forensic Anthropologist

Forensic anthropologists use their knowledge of human anatomy and archaeology to help law enforcement investigate crimes. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with law enforcement to identify victims of crime.

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Cultural Resource Manager

Cultural resource managers help preserve and manage cultural resources, such as archaeological sites and historic buildings. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with community groups to protect cultural heritage.

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Journalist

Journalists write and report on current events. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with journalists to write articles about the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

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Teacher

Teachers educate students about a variety of subjects. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with teachers to develop lesson plans that incorporate archaeological research.

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Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists study the environment and work to protect it from pollution and other threats. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with environmental scientists to study the impact of climate change on archaeological sites.

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Historian

Historians study the past and write about it. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with historians to write books and articles that help people understand the past.

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Sociologist

Sociologists study human societies and social behavior. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with sociologists to study the impact of gentrification on low-income communities.

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Anthropologist

Anthropologists study human cultures and societies. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with anthropologists to study the impact of globalization on indigenous cultures.

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Public Health Educator

Public health educators develop and implement programs to promote health and prevent disease. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with public health educators to develop programs to improve nutrition in low-income communities.

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Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research and analyze public policy issues. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with policy analysts to develop policies that protect the environment.

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Nonprofit Administrator

Nonprofit administrators manage nonprofit organizations. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with nonprofit administrators to develop programs that support affordable housing.

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Social Worker

Social workers help people справиться with personal and social problems. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with social workers to provide support to victims of domestic violence.

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Lawyer

Lawyers represent clients in court and advise them on legal matters. Archaeology as Activism can provide a strong foundation for this career by teaching how archaeologists use their research to make a positive impact on communities, such as by working with lawyers to represent indigenous communities in land rights cases.

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