ARC 275 - Archaeological Excavation I

3 Credits, 9 Contact Hours
0 lecture periods 9 lab periods

Introduction to the techniques and principles of archaeological excavation. Includes field mapping, excavation, recording, and laboratory processing methods, with field experience in Southern Arizona. Also includes culture history, archaeological ethics, and an overview of cultural resource management. Uses museum collections, equipment, resources and facilities of the Archaeology Centre.

Course Learning Outcomes

Discuss goals and ethics of archaeology.
Use basic archaeological field equipment and techniques.
Process excavated artifacts.
Record archaeological features.

Outline:

Introduction to Archaeological Excavation
1. Excavation Fundamentals
2. Safety concerns
Cultural History of Southern Arizona
1. Tucson Basin Prehistory
2. Site visits
Ethics in Archaeology
1. Principles of archaeological ethics
2. Indigenous perspectives
Overview of Cultural Resource Management
1. Major laws
2. Jobs in archaeology
Excavation Methods
1. Field mapping equipment and procedures
2. Excavation equipment and procedures
3. Recording, and documentation
4. Identification and laboratory processing of artifacts
Excavation of Tucson Basin Archaeological Site