The course provides an introduction to frameworks of archaeological science, namely how different lines of archaeological evidence are derived and interpreted. The course introduces the student to the intellectual roots of modern archaeology, with a specific focus upon the influences of different sciences (eg, biological, earth, material and social sciences). For example, several core concepts within archaeology have been ‘borrowed’ from different disciplines, including evolution, stratigraphy, taxonomic classification, interactions between the human species and the environment, and so on. Further, for each subject area, the course highlights the different ways in which the same lines of evidence are interpreted within archaeological discourse.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
Upon Successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Understand how different lines of archaeological evidence
are derived and interpreted;
- Critically analyse key debates within archaeological science;
- Develop a critical stance in order to assess
interpretative claims which are based upon various lines of archaeological
evidence; and
- Engage in constructive debate regarding issues in archaeological science
Indicative Assessment
Powerpoint presentations (1) 15% In class (10 minutes) LO: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Powerpoint presentations (2) 15% In class (10 minutes) LO: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Essay (1) 15% (1500 word) LO: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Essay (2) 15% (1500 word) LO: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Academic poster and presentation 30% (10 minutes) LO: 1, 2, 3
Reading logs 10% (3900 words) LO: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
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
130 hours of total student learning time made up from: a) 36 hours of contact over 12 weeks: 24 hours of lectures and 12 hours of seminars; and b) 94 hours of independent student research, reading and writing.Prescribed Texts
Dawkins, R. 2009 The Greatest Show on Earth: the evidence for evolution. Bantam Press: London.
Gamble, C. 2008 Archaeology:The Basics. 2nd edition. Routledge: London.
Turney, C. 2006 Bones, Rocks and Stars. The Science of when Things Happened.
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you 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). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 14
- Unit value:
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
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Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
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