Semester 2, 2023 External | |
Units : | 1 |
School or Department : | School of Humanities & Communication |
Grading basis : | Graded |
Course fee schedule : | /current-students/administration/fees/fee-schedules |
Staffing
Course Coordinator:
Requisites
Pre-requisite: ANT1000
Overview
In order for graduates to work professionally in archaeology, it is essential that they have a grounding in practical, field method skills. This course is designed to provide students with a practical introduction to archaeological field methods, fundamental to professional practice.
This course focuses on site survey, site recording and mapping, and techniques of excavation of archaeological sites. You will gain this experience in a genuine archaeological research context, at the Eagles Nest Depression Era camp in Redwood Park, Toowoomba. The course will include use of the Australian Archaeology Skills Passport as a key element to your professional development and to enhance your employment potential.
Course learning outcomes
On successful completion of this course students should be able to:
- professionally record and document an archaeological site (use of Global Satellite System GPS);
- set up and use a manual Theodolite and a Total Station;
- make a site plan (using Theodolite, Total Station, Off Set);
- understand excavation procedures (Establishing a site datum, laying out an excavation square/grid, excavation units, recording of levels, stratigraphic layers/change, Munsell, pH, sieving/labels, weight and volume of sediments, use of recording sheets, collection of sediment samples, photography);
- understand stratigraphy and complete a stratigraphic section drawing;
- compile relevant daily field notes and complete an excavation report;
Topics
Description | Weighting(%) | |
---|---|---|
1. | Introduction to the Eagles Nest Depression Camp (Site Induction/Site Safety) | 5.00 |
2. | Choosing an Excavation Location and stringing up an excavation trench | 5.00 |
3. | Setting up and using a Total Station/Theodolite and establishing a Site Datum | 5.00 |
4. | Setting up a sieving station and sieving procedures and protocols | 5.00 |
5. | Excavation of sediments - use of Excavation Units and recording of levels, 3D recording of artefacts, Use of Site Recording Forms, Taking Sediment Samples, Munsell Colour Tests and pH levels. | 15.00 |
6. | Identification of stratigraphy and stratigraphic section drawing | 10.00 |
7. | Site Plan – Total Station, Theodolite, Offset, Drone, GPS | 10.00 |
8. | Daily Field Note Book | 15.00 |
9. | Field report | 30.00 |
Text and materials required to be purchased or accessed
Student workload expectations
To do well in this subject, students are expected to commit approximately 10 hours per week including class contact hours, independent study, and all assessment tasks. If you are undertaking additional activities, which may include placements and residential schools, the weekly workload hours may vary.
Assessment details
Description | Group Assessment |
Weighting (%) | Course learning outcomes |
---|---|---|---|
Demonstration A1 of 2 | No | 20 | 1,2,3,4,5 |
Demonstration A2 of 2 | No | 35 | 1,2,3,4,5 |
Journal | No | 15 | 6 |
Report | No | 30 | 6 |