Ever wondered how archaeologists bring the ancient world to light? This introductory session unpacks the methods, tools, and scientific techniques used to excavate, date, and interpret archaeological finds. Learn how fragments of the past become stories that reshape our understanding of human history.
- What is Archaeology? Goals, scope, and its role in understanding human history
- Different Fields of Archaeology: prehistoric, classical, historical, maritime/underwater, industrial, experimental Archaeology
- How Archaeological Sites Are Found: surveys, aerial imagery, remote sensing, chance finds
- Excavation Techniques: stratigraphy, grids, field recording, tools of the trade
- Dating Methods: relative (typology, stratigraphy) vs absolute (radiocarbon, dendrochronology, thermoluminescence)
- Post-Excavation Processes: cleaning, cataloguing, conservation, and interpretation
- Case Studies: famous finds that reshaped history
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Explain the basic role and Goals of Archaeology
- Distinguish between Different Fields of Archaeology
- Identify key Excavation Methods and fieldwork Techniques
- Understand common Dating Techniques (relative and absolute)
- Recognise How Archaeological evidence is analyzed, interpreted, and preserved
