UNIVERSITY OF GUAM

COURSE OUTLINE

 

Course Number:  AN262                    College: CAS/Humanistic Studies

Course Title: Basic Field Methods in Archaeology

Credit Hours:  3                                  Semester Offered: Spring/Even Years

Date of Final Approval:

Course Count as    ______       general education requirement

                             ______       part of the Anthropology major program

                             ______       elective

 

1.                 CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION:

This course offers an introduction to the basic field methods and techniques employed in archaeological site survey, mapping, sampling, excavation and recording of cultural remains.  Various approaches to archaeological hypothesis testing are explained in lectures and slide presentations and demonstrated in the field using primarily ancient Chamorro habitation sites on Guam.

 

2.                  COURSE CONTENT:

The topics discussed include such matters as designing archaeological research, archaeological field survey, archaeological mapping, subsurface testing, data recovery techniques through excavation, analysis of artifacts, analysis of faunal remains, report preparation, archaeological photography, historic preservation, cultural resources management,  and computer application at entry levels.

 

3.       RATIONALE FOR THE COURSE:

The course enables students to acquire basic knowledge, understanding, and appreciation regarding the  field methods practiced by archaeologists. 

 

4.       SKILLS AND BACKGROUND REQUIRED OR EXPECTED:

Students should have taken Anthropology 101 (Introduction to Anthropology) which is listed in the catalogue as a prerequisite for the course.

 

5.       TEACHING METHODOLOGY AND ANTICIPATED CLASS SIZE:

The anticipated class size is 5 - 10.  The class incorporates a combination of lectures, audio-visual presentations, class discussions, and actual practicum in the field.    Guest speakers are invited to discuss or demonstrate  special topics of interest and relevance whenever appropriate and desirable. 

 

6.       ADDITIONAL COURSE DESCRIPTORS:

None.

 

7.       LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR THE STUDENT:

Students enrolled in the course will be able to demonstrate the following:

a)      a command of basic knowledge and skills  pertaining to the field methods in archaeology

b)      an understanding of the complex nature of conducting archaeological field research

c)      basic knowledge of the practical procedures for undertaking various tasks involved in planning, designing and executing archaeological field research

d)      enhanced critical and creative thinking skills

e)      enhanced skills in both written and verbal presentations

 

8.       METHODS OF EVALUATION:

Methods of evaluation for the course include the following:

a)      a mid-term examination which focuses on both lecture materials and weekly written assignments

b)      a final examination which may include a take-home essay in addition to the testing of knowledge covered in lectures and weekly written assignments

c)      class attendance and participation, especially in discussions which allow students to develop their in-depth understanding of the subjects covered in class as well as critical and creative thinking

 

9.       REQUIRED AND RECOMMENDED TEXTS AND/OR STUDY GUIDES:

Required:   Hester, Thomas R., Harry J. Shafer and Kenneth L. Feder, 1997, Field Methods in Archaeology, 7th Edition.  Mountain View: Mayfield Company. 

Recommended:  Additional readings are recommended from time to time utilizing books and academic journals available in learning resources facilities. 

 

10.             SUBSEQUENT COURSES:

Additional lower and upper-division courses in Anthropology such as AN462, and AN203 are available in the sub-discipline of  archaeology and listed in the UOG catalogue.