Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

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Unit Overview

Description

This Unit provides essential training in archaeological laboratory methods and analysis. Students learn fundamental skills in post-fieldwork analyses and demonstrate proficiency within the laboratory by learning the correct and safe use of appropriate equipment and procedures. Topics include: archaeological laboratory and research procedures, scientific dating, analysis of stratigraphy, rock art, archaeological sediments, plant and animal remains, stone artefacts, historic artefacts, and written texts.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Archaeology major sequence
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) understand how archaeological laboratory analysis informs archaeological analysis and theory.; (2) understand the ethical issues related to different types of archaeological evidence.; (3) apply specialised knowledge to operate within a laboratory environment proficiently and safely,; (4) apply specialised knowledge to correctly use appropriate equipment and procedures in relation to archaeological analytical categories such as stone tools, historical artefacts, sediments, stratigraphy, faunal and botanical remains, rock art and so on,; (5) create appropriate reports to professional standards on specific archaeological analytical topics.; and (6) evaluate different types of archaeological data with appropriate quantitative methods..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) essay; (2) laboratory assignments; and (3) quizzes. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Supplementary assessment is not available in this unit.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Ingrid Ward
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of ARCY1001 Think Like an Archaeologist
and ARCY1002 Experimenting with Archaeology and one of
ARCY2000 The Archaeology of Creativity
or ARCY2006 Archaeology of Death
or ARCY2100 Heritage Futures
or ARCY2220 Doing Archaeology: Fieldschool
Contact hours
Lecture-Laboratories: 3 hours per week
Note
This unit teaches skills and content that are recognised and can be recorded as Group A and/or Group B Skills according to the Australian Archaeology Skills Passport of the Australian Archaeological Association: https://australianarchaeologicalassociation.com.au/careers-resources/the-australian-archaeology-skills-passport/

To deliver the individual and group learning outcomes of this unit, participation in all learning experiences and assessment tasks is essential. Non-participation will result in some, or all vital content being missed, marks not earned, and/or penalties being applied.
Texts

Balme, J. and A. G. Paterson (eds). 2014. Archaeology in practice: a student guide to archaeological analyses. 2nd ed. Chichester: Wiley Blackwell.

This book is available in electronic and hard copy at the Reid Libray.

 

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.