Science in Archaeology 2

Course Objective

After finishing this course, students will:

• have acquired an advanced knowledge and understanding of a specified range of science-based methods and techniques used in archaeology
• have acquired advanced knowledge of science methods and techniques that are used to answer archaeological research questions;
• be able to critically reflect on the potential and limitations of these methods (application, added value, representativeness);
• have gained an advanced understanding of the position of science in archaeology;
• have gained practical skills in applying a number of science methods and techniques, in particular in the fields of palaeo-ecology, palaeo-climatology, isotope archaeology and geoarchaeology;
• have learned to analyse datasets obtained using science methods and techniques.

Course Content

Science in Archaeology 2 contains a continued introduction and practical application of scientific methods that can be used in archaeological research. Each student in Archaeology encounters problems and specific questions in the field or in the laboratory that relate to the age and prospection of the site, the floral signature of the surrounding landscape, palaeoclimatological data, as well as the formation and preservation potential of the archaeological assemblage. In this course an introduction and basic instruction into the variable methodology of Science in Archaeology is presented by several specialists in this field.

Teaching Methods

Lectures and practical exercises that are compulsory.

Type of Assessment

Assessment consists of practical assignments, essays and/or presentations for each of the themes treated. Together, these will count for 60% of the grade (3x20%). The remaining 40% of the grade will be assigned through a written final exam.