MODULE #2: WHAT IS ARCHAEOLOGY?
1-2 hours
A. Overview: In this module students are introduced to archaeology as the study of the human past through its material remains. Students will learn about archaeology as a science and the scientific method. The relationship between archaeology and history and anthropology is explored. Archaeology as a profession is discussed as are the issues relating to why archaeology is important in today's world.
B. Objectives:
1. Define archaeology as a science and the scientific method
2. Describe how archaeology began
3. Describe the relationship between archaeology and history
4. Identify the laws that protect archaeological sites
5. Describe the relationship between archaeology and anthropology
6. Identify why archaeology is important to today’s society
C. Principles:
1. Stewardship: why is it important to preserve the past; what we can learn form it
2. Diverse interests: who are the people involved in archaeology
3. Social Relevance: why is archaeology important in today’s world
4. Professional ethics and values: Responsibility to public and profession
5. Communication: reporting of archaeological information; and protection of information
D. Instructional Procedures: This module is primarily lecture and student activity. Throughout the lecture, students are asked questions to ensure they are grasping the concepts introduced. It is important to tie in real world experiences to the content, so the questions ask the students to think of some of the concepts in the context of today’s world. Powerpoint is useful to help identify concepts but the lecture can be taught with traditional technology (whiteboard, etc.).
E. Assessment: Students will complete class activity
F. Lecture Outline:
1. What is archaeology?
2. Consider archaeology as a science, defining the scientific method
3. Discuss how archaeology began; historical perspectives of archaeology
4. Discuss the relationship between archaeology and history
5. Discuss the relationship between archaeology and anthropology
6. Discuss archaeological ethics
7. Archaeology as a profession
8. Why is archaeology important?a Archaeology and human diversity
b. Archaeology as a political tool
c. Archaeology and the law
d. Archaeology and economic development
e. Archaeology and the present
H. Examples: African-American burial ground
I. Activities: Students will select two of the activities from the following web page and complete the two activities and quizzes. The four choices are:
1. The birth of archaeology
2. Wetwang: the story of a dig
3. Scottish crannogs
4. Experimental archaeology
Students can work with a partner to complete these activities and will turn in their work. http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/lj/archaeologylj/preview.shtml
J. Readings and videos: Fagan, Chapter 1