The programme will provide a core of theory, knowledge, tools and method that define integrated analysis in the field of archaeological post excavation. It will provide training for a career within archaeology and specifically, post excavation analysis, and the basis for future research. The course objectives are to provide students with a sound and detailed knowledge and critical understanding of the principles and methods of science based archaeological post excavation analysis related to both the theoretical and practical aspects of examining cultural and natural materials from archaeological contexts. It is essential that these activities are carried out within a wide-ranging archaeological context taking into consideration both research and rescue programmes. Such knowledge and understanding cannot be gained solely by academic studies, and practical experience of management procedures and the methods and techniques used for assessing, recording and analysing remains is imperative.
Formal teaching takes place in two ten week terms during the autumn and winter.
This unit provides an important underpinning of the course in terms of research and analytical skills. The organisation of archaeology will be outlined plus a description of what comprises archaeological post-excavation analysis, including theory and practice, and ethical issues and health and safety procedures. This unit is designed to provide students with a foundation in qualitative and quantitative analysis including descriptive and exploratory statistics and data presentation. The focus of the unit will be on the principles and practice of collections management and archive care and deposition, presentation and promotion. This unit will introduce students to the background of ceramics analysis in archaeology and provide an understanding of the comprehensive suite of analytical techniques currently employed.