¾«¶«´«Ã½app

UniSQ Logo
The current and official versions of the course specifications are available on the web at .
Please consult the web for updates that may occur during the year.

ANT2010 Archaeological Field Methods

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:

  1. professionally record and document an archaeological site (use of Global Satellite System GPS);
  2. set up and use a manual Theodolite and a Total Station;
  3. make a site plan (using Theodolite, Total Station, Off Set);
  4. 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);
  5. understand stratigraphy and complete a stratigraphic section drawing;
  6. 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

Burke, H., Morrison, M., Smith C. 2017, The Archaeologists Field Handbook: The essential guide for beginners and professionals in Australia, 2nd edn, Routledge.

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

Approach Type Description Group
Assessment
Weighting (%) Course learning outcomes
Assignments Practical Demonstration A1 of 2 No 20 1,2,3,4,5
Assignments Practical Demonstration A2 of 2 No 35 1,2,3,4,5
Assignments Written Journal No 15 6
Assignments Written Report No 30 6
Date printed 9 February 2024