ATS4257 · Interpreting the past through archaeology

Overview

This honours unit explores the methodology used in the interpretation and assessment of archaeological and historical data. We examine the range of data available for advanced research, their relative reliability and accessibility, and the various methods used to analyse textual and material cultural evidence. We learn how to use archaeological reports to obtain the maximum amount of data while understanding the technicalities of stratigraphy and phasing, and how to critically evaluate texts in original languages and in translation to build arguments about the past. We also review the various theoretical approaches used to study the ancient world. You are guided in how to create spreadsheets, databases, and data visualizations to expedite your data collection for archaeological and historical research.

Areas of study: Archaeology and ancient history

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Apply available research methodologies and analytical tools to collect and evaluate data.
2. Critically appraise the reliability of source materials.
3. Identify and appraise the various interpretations of data that have been offered by scholars.
4. Be aware of the impact of contemporary ideology and religious beliefs on the interpretation of the ancient past.
5. Use archaeological and historical data to present a detailed analytical discussion of a specific research question.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 288 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.