Further articulation of a theory results from the testing of research hypotheses against data and developing new explanations for observed results. The adjustment of a model occurs with a shift of theory resulting in a new theory replacing an old one, e.g., Darwinism replaced by the synthetic theory of evolution. In a more limited sense a scientific theory is a set of statements permitting prediction and explanation of phenomena. Science through application of the research paradigm known as the scientific method involves prediction not description. The simple testing of hypotheses and improving explantations is not science but description.
Science requires specific theories and laws that can be used to predict.
The archaeological record, which exists in the here and now, remains subject to scientific inquiry and has predictive value.