Introduction: Archaeological geophysics: Why aren’t we doing it like this?
Channel: Recording Archaeology
Date: 2019-08-15

During the course of this session we want to assess the current available standards and guidance for archaeological geophysics.  Are they fit for purpose and if not how do they need changing?
The archaeology sector was an early user and developer of geophysics and this benefited the sector hugely.  But has it become a bit stuck in mud?  Has an emphasis on large area coverage as quickly and cheaply as possible (using just magnetics) become too prevalent? Why is there resistance to improving spatial resolution and obtaining higher quality data? Why aren’t we using different techniques more often?  Why aren’t we surveying more brownfield sites?
Is it just cost (or a perception of cost)?  Is there a lack of knowledge and experience in those commissioning, specifying or in some cases carrying out a geophysical survey?  If so what we can we do about it?  There seems to be a need for training and education but how can this be achieved in a commercially driven sector?  Should geophysicists be certified? Is there a need for archaeological geophysical consultants?
Or is the fact we can survey large areas very quickly and find most sites sufficient?  After all they’ll get trenched anyway …

Mark Whittingham (Phase Heritage)