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.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit studies East and Southeast Asian archaeology from the appearance of recognisable human ancestors through the establishment of agricultural practices to the establishment of the use of metal and the foundations of the Classical Chinese Civilisation. Students learn about problems associated with understanding human evolution in relation to changing environmental and cultural contexts with reference to 'pre-sapiens' hominin forms and anatomically modern humans. Of particular importance is the role of Island Southeast Asia. The unit further examines the social and cultural processes related to the origins of farming and animal husbandry in the region. The final major topic of the unit is related to the changes connected to the introduction of metals and their contribution to the development of the first Chinese complex societies

Credit
6 points
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) critically analyse and apply competing theories of the interpretation of archaeological evidence with respect to Asian and SE Asian contexts; (2) demonstrate an understanding of Asian archaeology from the earliest hominins to the development of state-level societies; (3) understand the broad spatial and chronological development of material culture items from the Palaeolithic to Early Imperial China; (4) critically understand the relevance of the research history of Eastern and Southeast Asia for global archaeological research; (5) independently and critically undertake research through the collection and interpretation of archaeological information and report on this process; (6) critically evaluate archaeological principles and methods, and apply them to archaeological questions relating to Asian and SE Asian archaeology; (7) demonstrate presentation skills by preparing a tutorial presentation and concomitant group communication skills in discussing the presentation; (8) demonstrate a critical and reflexive understanding of ethical issues relevant to archaeological practice in Asian and SE Asian contexts; and (9) demonstrate critical reading skills and source criticism.

Assessment

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



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit rules
Prerequisites
ARCY1001 Discoveries in Archaeology, ARCY1002 Archaeology Today: Principles and Themes, and two Level 2 Archaeology units
Contact hours
2 hours per week
  • 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.