ARMF1-From Excavation to Publication: Professional Practice in Archaeology

Module Provider: Archaeology
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring / Summer term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Ms Amanda Clarke
Email: a.s.clarke@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module offers an introduction to both pre- and post-excavation techniques, and allows the student to follow an excavation project through from start to finish. Each student will plan an excavation from inception - through the creation of a Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI) - to completion. The student will also create a Post-Excavation Site Report, by developing (or building on) their excavation recording skills to produce a dated stratigraphic sequence through the analysis of excavation records. There will be weekly-dedicated training sessions and workshops on how to analyse site data, and incorporate it in to a written site report. Using data from existing projects, students will learn how to use a Geographic Information System (GIS) to create maps, as part of the Site Report. Assessment will be by the production of a WSI, which will include logistics, methodology, a budget and expected challenges, and a post-excavation Site Report (including a phased matrix). In the summer students will undertake a mini-Placement.

The module will also include an introduction to the legal and planning policy framework of professional archaeology, as well as how to work with archaeological databases and Historic England Records.

Aims:

This module aims to provide an experience of both excavation and post excavation techniques, which will help prepare students for employment with professional archaeological units, also providing a basis for other museum and heritage careers.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:

• understand the legal and planning policy framework of professional archaeology


• recognise the difference between a desk-based assessment, project design (WSI), and Site Report


• navigate the process of pre-excavation, excavation (through records) and post excavation


• record and analyse stratigraphic matrices


• integrate finds andenvironmental evidence with stratigraphic evidence from an archaeological excavation


• phase an archaeological site using spot dates


• prepare a detailed Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI)


• report on an archaeological site investigation incorporating illustrations and photographs


• interrogate an archaeological database


• evaluate their own practical performance and understanding

Additional outcomes:

• develop their IT awareness by working with and using an archaeological database (IADB).


• develop a working knowledge of traditional and digital publishing

Outline content:

Students will have 2 x 1 hour lectures each week on different aspects of pre- and post-excavation. Additionally there will be a weekly 1 hour workshop on site records, site publications and data. Optional sampling and data entry workshops will also take place during the term.

Global context:

This is a highly vocational module which will provide students with skills useful in professional archaeological employment worldwide.Ìý

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

This is a practical module utilising records from current excavations. As well as weekly lectures by members of departmental staff, there will be contributions by professional specialists. The module will be taught primarily through lectures, discussion seminars and workshops with a visit to a professional archaeological unit if possible. The module will also include practical sessions.

Students will undertake a mini-Placement to take place in the summer.