ANTH 2261 - Principles of Archaeology

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with

• an introductory knowledge of the academic field of archaeology,
• a basic understanding of archaeological excavation and laboratory methods,
• a basic understanding of the theory behind archaeological investigation and analysis,
• a familiarity with important archaeological research projects from around the world,
• an awareness of different types of archaeological careers, and
• last but not least: a firm understanding of the importance of preserving the remains of cultural heritage everywhere for the good of all humanity.

This course is not able to provide:

• archaeological field experience or
• archaeological laboratory experience.

However, this course is sufficient to gain you admission to an archaeological field school (generally offered by many 4-year colleges and universities) during the summer months. Your enrollment in such a school will earn you transferable college credits. Alternatively, you may merely be interested in becoming a volunteer "digger" or lab assistant at an archaeological site. Your training in this course will give you a wider range of opportunities as a volunteer.

I can help students find both field school and volunteer opportunities.

posted August 18, 2007.