Interpreting Archaeological Evidence

Module code: AR2604

Archaeology is it not just about digging stuff up we also have to make sense of the stuff we dig up. This level 2 module explores the range of different types of stuff that archaeologists dig up – pots, objects of metal and stone, animal and plant remains, human remains, and other organic remains (e.g. textiles). It investigates how we use these remains to better understand the human past. In this module you will learn about the different methods that archaeologists use to investigate and interpret various types of archaeological data. You will learn how to comprehend and to present scientific and other types of data in written, graphical and numeric formats. You will also be able to reflect on the potential and limitations of material-cultural and environmental remains for understanding past societies and use this knowledge to develop your own understandings of archaeological processes of investigation.

Learning materials for this module include recorded lectures, guided readings and exercises designed by our academics and delivered through our virtual learning environment. Through these materials you will learn about different ways to analyse archaeological remains to understand the past and improve your general research and academic skills. In this module you will complete two different assessments: a poster in which you will outline evidence-based approaches in archaeology and a report in which you will carry out an analysis on a set of archaeological data. For both assessments you will be able to follow up particular aspects of the archaeological record and its interpretation that you have found the most interesting.