Introducing Archaeology: Sites, Artefacts, Theory and Practice
Short course
Online
Description
-
Type
Short course
-
Level
Beginner
-
Methodology
Online
-
Class hours
15h
-
Duration
5 Weeks
-
Online campus
Yes
-
Delivery of study materials
Yes
-
Support service
Yes
-
Personal tutor
Yes
-
Virtual classes
Yes
The 'Introducing Archaeology' course, offered by the Akkadium College School of Anthropology and Archaeology, offers a broad introduction to the processes of exploring past societies. By examining a wide range of international case studies we discover the methods and techniques archaeologists use, and how these help us to understand the way people lived and died in the ancient world.
About this course
From the initial phases of research in libraries and archives, through processes of site survey and excavation, to the post-excavation analysis of artefacts and materials, you will gain unique insights into all of the key stages of an archaeological project. We then take a global perspective to look at current threats to important archaeological sites around the world, and explore how you can get involved and make a contribution to this exciting discipline.
This course is intended for anyone who wants to learn about archaeology as a discipline, what archaeologists do and how they do it. You may have some prior knowledge or experience related to archaeology, history or anthropology, but this is not essential. What matters is that you are keen to learn, that you are willing to engage with other students and with the tutor in online conversations, and that you are curious about past societies and ancient cultures.
No prior knowledge is required to participate. Our courses take place in an online virtual learning environment (VLE), so you will need access to an internet-connected computer and some basic computer skills. We will give you plenty of technical guidance about how to use the system and get the most from your course.
Akkadium College Certificate of Completion.
All Akkadium College online courses are designed by professional educational developers and learning technologists from top London universities. You will have opportunities to engage in rich dialogue with your tutor and other learners as an integral part of the learning experience. Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a signed certificate and a transcript with details of all of the topics you studies and your achievements.
On the Introducing Archaeology course, you will receive personal tuition from archaeologist Dr. Mark Anderson, a Member of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists, and a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London.
A member of our enrolments team will respond to enquiries promptly, and will take the time to understand questions and provide appropriate guidance.
Reviews
Subjects
- Archaeology
- Anthropology
- Social Science
- Analysis methodologies
- Field work techniques
- Surveying
- Aerial photography
- Archive research
- Academic writing
- Mapping
- Excavation techniques
- Archaeological education
- Archaeological research techniques
- Artefact analysis
- Dating Techniques
- Historical research techniques
- Ethnography
- Heritage management
- Heritage conservation
Teachers and trainers (1)
Mark Anderson
Head of the School of Anthropology and Archaeology
Dr. Mark Anderson holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in archaeology, and completed a doctorate in African archaeology at the University of Cape Town. He specialises in the anthropology of ritual and religion, the formation of complex societies, and the archaeology and cultures of Africa. Mark is a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute, a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, a Member of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists and a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London.
Course programme
- What is archaeology? Exploring definitions;
- Desk-based and archival research;
- Field survey;
- Excavation: strategies and techniques;
- Archaeological recording;
- Principles of archaeological photography;
- Artefacts: processing and analysis;
- Conservation issues: protecting world heritage;
- Want to be an archaeologist? Getting involved.
Upon completion of the course, participants should be able to:
- Discuss the development of archaeology as a discipline, including major theories and approaches;
- Evaluate the significance of key sites and archaeological case studies from a range of countries and periods;
- Describe some of the key methods and techniques used in modern archaeological fieldwork, survey and artefact analysis;
- Identify major current issues in the protection of important heritage sites;
- Develop a personal action plan for becoming more involved in archaeology after the course.
Introducing Archaeology: Sites, Artefacts, Theory and Practice