Introduction to Archaeology Research Design & Methods (322-0-1)

Instructors

Cynthia Robin
847/491-4835
1812 Hinman Ave., Room #104, EV Campus

Meeting Info

2001 Sheridan Anthro Lab 1325: Tues 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

This class is fundamentally about how we do archaeology: how to design an archaeological research project. We will examine the main methods in every archaeologists' took kit: archaeological survey, excavation, and materials analysis. Over the course of the quarter, we will take what interests you about archaeology and turn that in to a design for an archaeological research project. We will learn how to frame archaeological questions in terms of intellectual merit (the potential to advance knowledge) and broader impacts (the potential to benefit society). The main goal of the course is to design an archaeological research project. We will achieve this goal across the quarter through writing a proposal to conduct an archaeological research project designed by the student. We will review successful proposals by archaeologists to decipher how researchers link theory, data, methods, and analysis in their archaeological research design and use these as templates for our own project designs. Upon completion of the course students should be comfortable with designing archaeological research and writing research proposals to get funding for their project, important skills to know whether you plan to continue in archaeology and academia, or not.

Learning Objectives

1. To design an archaeological research project.
2. To write a grant proposal to get your project funded.
3. To frame research questions terms of intellectual merit (the potential to advance knowledge) and broader impacts (the potential to benefit society).
4. To appreciate the ethical dimensions of archaeological research.
5. To gain certification in the responsible conduct of research.

Class Materials (Required)

All readings for this course are articles or archeological research grant proposals that will be posted on Canvas and free of charge to students.

Class Attributes

Advanced Expression
Social and Behavioral Science Foundational Discipl

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Pre-Registration -- Reserved for Anthropology majors and minors until the end of preregistration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone. Reserved for Juniors & Seniors