Environmental archaeology - advanced study in theory and methodology II, 7.5 Credits

Contents

Environmental archaeology uses theories and methods both developed within the discipline as well as those adapted from other areas of science, including Quaternary science, ecology, geology and others. Advanced tools, including as Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and quantitative environmental reconstruction are used in combination with more fuzzy theories of human activity to try to understand changes in the past; both pre and post Anthropocene. Data from pollen cores, fossil insects, geoarchaeology and other proxies are integrated into projects to help interpret archaeological sites and the landscapes around them. This course will provide the opportunity to study a number of these methods from an interdisciplinary perspective, and engage in practical exercises in the use of GIS, statistics, environmental reconstructions and the interpretation and presentation of environmental data. The course will include problem orientated and pure and applied approaches as well as practical exercises.

Expected learning outcomes

After completion of the course, students should be able to:
 
Knowledge and understanding:

• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of advanced theories and methods fundamental to environmental archaeology
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of how these theories and methods relate to fundamental theories in archaeology and other disciplines
• Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of good experimental design in archaeological science

Proficiency and aptitude:

• Demonstrate the ability to undertake the planning, design and evaluation of environmental archaeological research projects
• Demonstrate the ability to independently integrate, discuss and use knowledge of advanced analysis methods in environmental archaeology

Assessment and approach:

• Demonstrate the ability to critically and statistically evaluate own and published research results
• Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate research project designs

Required Knowledge

Univ: 90 ECTS courses in archeology, environmental archaeology, geology, environmental chemistry, physical geography, or its equivalent, as well as Environmental archaeology - advanced study in theory and methodology 15 ECTS credits, or its equivalent. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English A. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.
 

Form of instruction

This course is taught through lectures, seminars and practical exercises.

Examination modes

This course is examined through active seminar and discussion participation, as well as an individual poster/presentation with accompanying critically reflective written report on the contents and background of the poster.

The grades Fail, Pass or Pass with distinction are awarded for the individual assignments. The grades Fail, Pass or Pass with distinction are awarded for the course based on an overall judgement of seminar performance and individual assignments. A Pass is awarded only if at least a Pass grade is achieved for all assignments within the course.

A student who has failed an examination on two occasions has the right to request another grading teacher. A student who has passed an examination can not redo the examination to get a higher grade.

Academic credit transfer
Transfer of credit is handled by Student Services/Degree Evaluation Office.