We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Molly Morgan
This course is the third course 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 first introductory course. The second course teaches common scientific methods used in archaeological research. This course focuses on forms of interpretation to reconstruct various aspects of the past through archaeological approaches. The final course covers contemporary social issues that archaeologists engage with.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/pb32bx/introduction
Two deals to help you save
Save money when you learn. Here are two deals and offers that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until July 14
Coursera Plus Annual
Work toward what's next for your career with access to 10,000+ programs. Discover emerging skills and save.
Up to
40%
off
Get offer
Valid until August 30
Google AI App Builder
Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind
Take
100%
off
Get offer
What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Archaeology as Reconstruction of the Past
Hey there! Ready to dive into the fascinating world of archaeology? 🏺 In this course, we will delve into the delicious details of ancient diets. Ever wondered how archaeologists piece together the identities of people from long ago based on what they ate? Well, get ready to find out! We'll look at how archaeologists reconstruct past people's identities through evidence of the food they ate and explore the transition to food production through the example of early Maize in Mesoamerica.
But that's not all! We'll also be delving deep into humanity's origins with Paleoanthropology's help. It's like unlocking the secrets of our ancient ancestors! 🌍
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to Archaeology as Reconstruction of the Past
Hey there! Ready to dive into the fascinating world of archaeology? 🏺 In this course, we will delve into the delicious details of ancient diets. Ever wondered how archaeologists piece together the identities of people from long ago based on what they ate? Well, get ready to find out! We'll look at how archaeologists reconstruct past people's identities through evidence of the food they ate and explore the transition to food production through the example of early Maize in Mesoamerica.
But that's not all! We'll also be delving deep into humanity's origins with Paleoanthropology's help. It's like unlocking the secrets of our ancient ancestors! 🌍
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines the evolution of farming practices and challenges faced by ancient communities
Covers how archaeologists reconstruct identities of ancient people through the study of foodways
Explores various scientific methods used in archaeological reconstruction
Provides a comprehensive understanding of different aspects of archaeology, from its history to its contemporary applications
Offers a solid foundation for learners new to archaeology
Suitable for learners of all stages, including high school students, college students, and lifelong learners
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
A journey into past human lives
According to students, this course provides a highly engaging and accessible introduction to archaeological reconstruction, focusing on intriguing topics like ancient diets and foodways, human origins, and cultural landscapes. Learners consistently praise the instructor's clear explanations and passionate delivery, making complex concepts easy to understand for a wide audience. While a few find the pacing occasionally slow or the depth introductory, the course is broadly celebrated for its informative content and well-structured modules, making it ideal for lifelong learners and those new to the field.
Provides a solid, informative introduction to the field.
"A solid continuation of the series. The content on cultural landscapes was fascinating."
"This course built well on the previous ones. I especially enjoyed the module on pastoralist lifeways."
"The detailed look at how archaeologists use evidence to piece together past lives was exactly what I was looking for."
The instructor's passion shines through the lectures.
"The instructor's passion truly shines through, making even dry topics engaging."
"The lectures were well-produced and kept me hooked."
"The instructor made complex topics easy to understand."
Explanations are clear and captivating for all.
"Absolutely loved this course! The modules on foodways and early maize farming were incredibly insightful, and the instructor made complex topics easy to understand."
"Fantastic course for anyone interested in archaeology! The explanations of human origins and evolution were clear and captivating."
"As a lifelong learner, I found this course incredibly enriching. The deep dive into food and identity was a highlight."
"The way they explained fossilization and Earth's history made it so accessible."
Some found the pacing slow or desired more practical focus.
"The course is okay, but I was hoping for more practical examples of how archaeologists *do* the reconstruction. It felt very theoretical at times."
"Good for beginners, but not for those looking for advanced methods. The pacing was a bit slow for me."
"My only minor critique is that some parts felt a bit surface-level, but it's an intro course, so that's expected."
"I found this course somewhat repetitive, especially if you've taken other intro archaeology courses."
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: Reconstruction of The Past with these
activities:
Create an Infographic on the Evolution of Human Diets
Show steps
Encourages creativity and synthesis of knowledge, helping students visualize and communicate the key concepts related to human dietary evolution.
Browse courses on
Human Evolution
Show steps
-
Gather and analyze data on human dietary patterns throughout history.
-
Design a visually appealing and informative infographic that clearly presents the data.
-
Share the infographic with others to educate and engage them on the topic.
Participate in Weekly Discussion Groups
Show steps
Fosters collaborative learning and peer exchange, allowing students to share insights, discuss concepts, and reinforce their understanding.
Show steps
-
Attend weekly discussion sessions.
-
Actively participate by sharing ideas, asking questions, and engaging with peers.
-
Prepare discussion topics or questions in advance to facilitate meaningful conversations.
Create a Bibliography of Archaeological Literature
Show steps
Enhances research skills and promotes a deeper understanding of the archaeological literature landscape.
Show steps
-
Search for scholarly articles and books related to the topics covered in the course.
-
Compile a comprehensive bibliography, including citations and annotations.
-
Share the bibliography with others as a valuable resource for further research.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Design and Implement a Miniature Archaeological Excavation
Show steps
Offers hands-on experience in archaeological research methods and techniques, enhancing practical skills and understanding of excavation processes.
Browse courses on
Archaeological Methods
Show steps
-
Select a suitable location and obtain necessary permits for excavation.
-
Plan and design the excavation strategy, including grid system and excavation techniques.
-
Conduct the excavation, carefully documenting and recording all findings.
-
Analyze the excavated materials and interpret the results to reconstruct past human behavior.
-
Prepare a final report summarizing the project's findings and conclusions.
Participate in the Archaeology Hackathon
Show steps
Challenges students to apply their knowledge and skills in a competitive environment, promoting innovation and collaboration.
Browse courses on
Data Analysis
Show steps
-
Form a team and register for the hackathon.
-
Develop a solution to the proposed archaeological challenge within the given time frame.
-
Present the solution to a panel of experts and compete for recognition.
Volunteer as a Mentor for Aspiring Archaeologists
Show steps
Provides an opportunity to share knowledge and give back to the archaeological community, while honing communication and interpersonal skills.
Browse courses on
Mentoring
Show steps
-
Reach out to local archaeological organizations or schools to offer mentoring services.
-
Connect with aspiring archaeologists and provide guidance on their educational and career paths.
-
Share experiences, offer advice, and support their professional development.
Create an Infographic on the Evolution of Human Diets
Show steps
Encourages creativity and synthesis of knowledge, helping students visualize and communicate the key concepts related to human dietary evolution.
Browse courses on
Human Evolution
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather and analyze data on human dietary patterns throughout history.
- Design a visually appealing and informative infographic that clearly presents the data.
- Share the infographic with others to educate and engage them on the topic.
Participate in Weekly Discussion Groups
Show steps
Fosters collaborative learning and peer exchange, allowing students to share insights, discuss concepts, and reinforce their understanding.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend weekly discussion sessions.
- Actively participate by sharing ideas, asking questions, and engaging with peers.
- Prepare discussion topics or questions in advance to facilitate meaningful conversations.
Create a Bibliography of Archaeological Literature
Show steps
Enhances research skills and promotes a deeper understanding of the archaeological literature landscape.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for scholarly articles and books related to the topics covered in the course.
- Compile a comprehensive bibliography, including citations and annotations.
- Share the bibliography with others as a valuable resource for further research.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Design and Implement a Miniature Archaeological Excavation
Show steps
Offers hands-on experience in archaeological research methods and techniques, enhancing practical skills and understanding of excavation processes.
Browse courses on
Archaeological Methods
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a suitable location and obtain necessary permits for excavation.
- Plan and design the excavation strategy, including grid system and excavation techniques.
- Conduct the excavation, carefully documenting and recording all findings.
- Analyze the excavated materials and interpret the results to reconstruct past human behavior.
- Prepare a final report summarizing the project's findings and conclusions.
Participate in the Archaeology Hackathon
Show steps
Challenges students to apply their knowledge and skills in a competitive environment, promoting innovation and collaboration.
Browse courses on
Data Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form a team and register for the hackathon.
- Develop a solution to the proposed archaeological challenge within the given time frame.
- Present the solution to a panel of experts and compete for recognition.
Volunteer as a Mentor for Aspiring Archaeologists
Show steps
Provides an opportunity to share knowledge and give back to the archaeological community, while honing communication and interpersonal skills.
Browse courses on
Mentoring
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to local archaeological organizations or schools to offer mentoring services.
- Connect with aspiring archaeologists and provide guidance on their educational and career paths.
- Share experiences, offer advice, and support their professional development.
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Archaeology: Reconstruction of The Past will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Archaeologist
Archaeologist
Archaeologists uncover the past through excavation and analysis of artifacts and structures. Some archaeologists specialize in particular time periods or regions. This course will help you develop the skills needed to conduct archaeological research, including excavation, artifact analysis, and interpretation of data. It can also help you learn about the history of archaeology and the different methods used by archaeologists. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in archaeology or a related field.
Curator
Curator
Curators are responsible for the care and preservation of museum collections. They may also conduct research on the collection and develop educational programs. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a curator, including object handling, conservation, and exhibition design. You will also learn about museum management and the ethical issues involved in working with museum collections. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in museum studies or a related field.
Paleontologist
Paleontologist
Paleontologists study the history of life on Earth by examining fossils. They may work in the field, excavating fossils, or in the laboratory, analyzing and interpreting them. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a paleontologist, including fossil identification, preparation, and analysis. You will also learn about the history of life on Earth and the methods used by paleontologists to study it. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in paleontology or a related field.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study human cultures and societies. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as an anthropologist, including research design, data collection, and analysis. You will also learn about the different methods used by anthropologists to study human culture and society. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in anthropology or a related field.
Historian
Historian
Historians study the past by examining written documents, artifacts, and other sources. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and libraries. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a historian, including research design, data collection, and analysis. You will also learn about the different methods used by historians to study the past. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in history or a related field.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists are responsible for the care and preservation of historical documents. They may work in a variety of settings, including libraries, museums, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as an archivist, including document preservation, cataloging, and research. You will also learn about the ethical issues involved in working with historical documents. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in archival studies or a related field.
Museum Educator
Museum Educator
Museum educators develop and deliver educational programs for museum visitors. They may work in a variety of settings, including museums, schools, and community centers. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a museum educator, including curriculum development, teaching, and evaluation. You will also learn about the different methods used by museum educators to engage visitors with museum collections. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in museum education or a related field.
Cultural Resource Manager
Cultural Resource Manager
Cultural resource managers are responsible for the management and preservation of cultural resources, such as archaeological sites and historic buildings. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a cultural resource manager, including site assessment, planning, and implementation. You will also learn about the legal and ethical issues involved in managing cultural resources. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in cultural resource management or a related field.
Forensic Anthropologist
Forensic Anthropologist
Forensic anthropologists use their knowledge of human remains to help solve crimes. They may work in a variety of settings, including law enforcement agencies, medical examiner's offices, and universities. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a forensic anthropologist, including human osteology, forensic archaeology, and forensic entomology. You will also learn about the legal and ethical issues involved in working with human remains. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in forensic anthropology or a related field.
Archaeological Technician
Archaeological Technician
Archaeological technicians assist archaeologists with the excavation, analysis, and interpretation of archaeological data. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as an archaeological technician, including excavation techniques, artifact analysis, and data entry. You will also learn about the different methods used by archaeologists to study the past. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in archaeology or a related field.
Historical Archaeologist
Historical Archaeologist
Historical archaeologists study the past by examining the material remains of human activity. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a historical archaeologist, including excavation techniques, artifact analysis, and historical research. You will also learn about the different methods used by historical archaeologists to study the past. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in historical archaeology or a related field.
Paleoanthropologist
Paleoanthropologist
Paleoanthropologists study the evolution of humans and other primates. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and research institutions. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a paleoanthropologist, including field research, fossil analysis, and interpretation of data. You will also learn about the different methods used by paleoanthropologists to study human evolution. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in paleoanthropology or a related field.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientist
Conservation scientists use their knowledge of science to help preserve and protect cultural heritage. They may work in a variety of settings, including museums, libraries, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a conservation scientist, including object conservation, materials science, and environmental monitoring. You will also learn about the ethical issues involved in working with cultural heritage. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in conservation science or a related field.
Dendrochronologist
Dendrochronologist
Dendrochronologists use tree rings to study past climate and environmental conditions. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, research institutions, and government agencies. This course will help you develop the skills needed to work as a dendrochronologist, including tree-ring analysis, climate reconstruction, and interpretation of data. You will also learn about the different methods used by dendrochronologists to study past climate and environmental conditions. This knowledge will be valuable for anyone who wants to pursue a career in dendrochronology or a related field.
Geologist
Geologist
Geologists study the Earth's physical structure and history. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, research institutions, and government agencies. This course may be useful for geologists who want to learn more about the history of human interaction with the environment. You will learn about the different methods used by archaeologists to study the past, and you will gain a better understanding of the geological context of human history.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pb32bx/introduction
Reading list
We've selected 13 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: Reconstruction of The Past.
This ambitious volume provides a global perspective on prehistory, offering students and teachers of archaeology a valuable resource for understanding the human past.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the archaeology of food, from the earliest hominins to the present day. Some of the topics it covers include: the origins of agriculture, the development of food technologies, the role of food in trade and exchange, and the ways in which food has shaped human culture.
Examines the relationship between food and identity in the past, making it a valuable resource for the archaeology course module titled 'Reconstructing Identity Through The Study of Foodways'.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the archaeology of religion, making it a valuable resource for understanding the role of religion in human societies.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of archaeology. It covers topics such as the history of archaeology, archaeological methods, and the interpretation of archaeological data.
Save
This comprehensive volume explores the latest research in cultural heritage studies with the latest theories and methodologies in the field, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in cultural heritage, including archaeology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of archaeology. It covers topics such as the history of archaeology, archaeological methods, and the interpretation of archaeological data.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of archaeology. It covers topics such as the history of archaeology, archaeological methods, and the interpretation of archaeological data.
Save
Provides a global perspective on the history of science, offering archaeology students and teachers a valuable resource for understanding the development of scientific thought.
This multi-volume work provides a comprehensive overview of the history of cartography, offering archaeology students and teachers a valuable resource for understanding the development of mapping.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the archaeology of climate change, making it a valuable resource for understanding the impact of climate change on human societies.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the archaeology of gender, making it a valuable resource for understanding the role of gender in human societies.
Save
Provides a very short introduction to the field of archaeology. It covers topics such as the history of archaeology, archaeological methods, and the interpretation of archaeological data.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pb32bx/introduction
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Effort
16 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Rice University
Instructor
Molly Morgan
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Introduction to Archaeology. It's comprised of four courses:
- Introduction to Archaeology: Reconstruction of The Past (viewing)
- Introduction to Archaeology: Knowing The Past
- Introduction to Archaeology: Archaeology as Activism
- Introduction to Archaeology : Archaeology as Science
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser