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This course introduces the basic principles of archaeology as a discipline. It will focus on the main categories of evidence for Classical Archaeology and will use examples drawn from sites in the Mediterranean basin from 3000 BCE- 400 CE. The course will also use artefacts in the collections of the Teece Museum and the Canterbury Museum.
Although it focuses on Classical Archaeology, students who complete the course will be well prepared to continue their study of archaeology in other areas. Weekly topics include: history of archaeology, categories of evidence, locating sites, dating methods, using archaeological data to understand and explain human societies and environment, archaeology and human cognition (language, artefacts, ritual), ethics and archaeology, and heritage/conservation.Class time will be divided between two hours of interactive lectures and a one-hour workshop each week. Readings will be assigned for each lecture topic, while workshops will focus on primary evidence, archaeological techniques, artefacts, and other archaeological issues.
Subject-specific course outcomes:1. A basic ability to identify and discuss in detail what constitutes a well-excavated and properly reported archaeological site. 2. A basic ability to understand archaeological data and identify what we learn from stratigraphy, scientific analysis of various types, pottery, coins and other finds.3. An understanding of archaeological sites in relation to heritage management, and the national and international laws governing the protection of cultural patrimony and the sale of antiquities.Transferrable skills:4. Improved argumentation and writing skills and improved critical/analytical skills 5. Workplace skills including: problem-solving using different types of data and evidence, close observation skills, time management, and self-confidence and autonomy built upon disciplined habits of study and pursuit of set goals.6. Improved ability to conduct research and present it to an intelligent audience.
This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attributes specified below:
Critically competent in a core academic discipline of their award
Students know and can critically evaluate and, where applicable, apply this knowledge to topics/issues within their majoring subject.
Employable, innovative and enterprising
Students will develop key skills and attributes sought by employers that can be used in a range of applications.
Biculturally competent and confident
Students will be aware of and understand the nature of biculturalism in Aotearoa New Zealand, and its relevance to their area of study and/or their degree.
Globally aware
Students will comprehend the influence of global conditions on their discipline and will be competent in engaging with global and multi-cultural contexts.
Any 15 points from 100 level in CLAS, orany 60 points at 100 level from the Schedule V of the BA, or60 points at 100 level from any other bachelor's degree.
Alison Griffith
Please check the course LEARN page for further details and updates.
Renfrew, Colin , Bahn, Paul G; Archaeology essentials : theories, methods, practice ; Fourth edition; Thames & Hudson Ltd, 2018.
Domestic fee $799.00
International fee $3,600.00
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see Humanities .