Archaeology and Ancient History in Education

Module code: AR3070

Archaeology and Ancient History in Education develops skills in the practice of archaeological and historical interpretation for public purposes, and through placements in schools and heritage organisations provides an excellent opportunity to develop a range of important transferable skills. Students undertake a 30 hour placement in a primary or secondary school or in a heritage setting. Heritage placements have included: Richard III Visitor Centre; Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre; Portable Antiquities Schemes; Leicester Greyfriars Heritage Initiative and BBC Radio Leicester. Since 2012, 60 students have taken the module and more than half have gone on to PGCE, teaching or heritage related posts, or to postgraduate courses in museums and heritage management.

On completion of the module you will:

  • Understand the importance of adopting a critical approach to the practice of archaeological and historical interpretation for public purposes
  • Be aware of concepts and theories underpinning discourse about heritage
  • Identify both general and specific challenges faced in the presentation of archaeological and historical evidence, and are familiar with effective ways of meeting these challenges
  • Be aware of ethical concerns in the public presentation of archaeological and historical evidence
  • Be aware of the importance of archaeological places and historical evidence in the construction of individual and community identity
  • Be experienced in public speaking and communication skills
  • Be able to prepare lesson plans, teaching materials and outreach activities
  • Be able to handle difficult and potentially disruptive situations

Topics covered

  • Politics of the Past
  • Archaeology and Ancient History in the Media
  • Teaching Ancient History, Classics and Archaeology
  • Diversity in the Archaeology and Ancient History classroom
  • Researching, designing and costing activities and resources 

Student feedback

"I would just like to thank you for the AR3070 Archaeology and Ancient History in Education module, which cemented the idea that I wanted to teach. I found out yesterday that I have been offered a conditional place on the Teach First programme for 2014 to teach English at secondary level, and I feel my placement impacted majorly on my application for the programme. Furthermore, the skills I gained in creating a lesson plan and critiquing educational resources have proven invaluable."

(2013 Graduate)

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