This core course introduces students to the range of archaeological science methods and techniques which one can expect to use in field- and laboratory-based archaeological research and heritage management projects, evaluated within an explicitly archaeological methodology. A background in the history of the field will first be given, and the theoretical debates concerning the role of archaeological science within the wider field of archaeology will be canvassed. The second half of the course will focus particularly on fieldwork applications of archaeological science, including site visits and practical exercises.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Explain and critique the relationships between environmental sciences, archaeology and historical and social disciplines
- Apply basic principles derived from physical sciences in natural systems to archaeological research design and data interpretation.
- Scope, plan and report on the research context of key developments in archaeological science as a discipline
- Undertake basic field contextual analysis and assessment of archaeological sites within holistic frameworks bridging soil science, geology, Quaternary timescales and development planning frameworks
- Select and deploy relevant sampling and analytical techniques as research-led investigations in archaeology and heritage management as desk-top studies and in the field.
- Design and engage in ethically sound and professionally appropriate approaches to undertaking scientific investigations as archaeologists across a range of environments, social contexts and with diverse stakeholders.
- Plan and design materials from research investigations for public dissemination and/or for conference poster presentation
Indicative Assessment
In-class presentation 10%, practical exercises 20%, 2000 word essay (20%), 4000 word research essay (40%) and attendance and participation (10%)The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
2.5 hours of lectures and seminars per week over 12 weeks.
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 1
- Unit value:
- 12 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 12.00 | 0.25000 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2015 | $5208 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2015 | $8292 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1027 | 16 Feb 2015 | 06 Mar 2015 | 31 Mar 2015 | 29 May 2015 | In Person | N/A |
