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 examines the historical development of theories about culture and culture change, and the methods these theories have employed in order to infer past human behaviour. The unit aims to develop students' ability to think through complex archaeological problems involving several lines of evidence and to understand the theories developed to deal with diverse archaeological materials. Students are expected to achieve a broad understanding of the theoretical frameworks presented in the unit and their relationship to ideas about culture. The particular frameworks discussed are Antiquarian, Culture-Historical, Processual, Post-Processual and Indigenous. Case studies are drawn from across the world, with Australia as a particular focus.

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

Students are able to (1) achieve a broad understanding of the theoretical frameworks presented in the unit and their relationship to ideas about culture and cultural change; (2) understand the major schools of theory influencing archaeological thought; including: Ancient and Antiquarian, Culture Historical, Processual and Post-Processual, and Indigenous; (3) develop the skills required to link theory to specific archaeological case studies, using appropriate methods; (4) demonstrate a critical and reflexive understanding of ethical issues relevant to all archaeological practice; (5) independently and critically undertake research through the collection and interpretation of archaeological information and report on this process; (6) demonstrate presentation skills by preparing a tutorial presentation and concomitant group communication skills in discussing the presentation; and (7) demonstrate critical reading skills and source criticism.

Assessment

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



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

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Sven Ouzman
Unit rules
Prerequisites
ARCY1001 Discoveries in Archaeology, ARCY1002 Archaeology Today: Principles and Themes, and two Level 2 units in Archaeology
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.