ANTHROPOLOGY 222
INTRODUCTION TO ARCHAEOLOGY

1. Catalog Entry

ANTH 222. Introduction to Archaeology
Three hours lecture (3).

An introduction to the methods archaeologists use to interpret the past lifeways of prehistoric and historic human cultures is the focus of this course. Case studies of past cultures are also discussed to provide current information on these cultures and to serve as examples of archaeological research.

2. Detailed Description of Content of Course

The major areas of archaeology covered in this course include the following:

1. The history and development of archaeological theories and methods.
2. Archaeological ethics and cultural resource management.
3. Archaeological dating techniques--stratigraphy, typology, absolute dating.
4. Analysis of material culture (artifacts), subsistence, and settlement patterns.
5. The reconstruction of past lifeways.
6. An overview of North American prehistory.

3. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The course is taught through the use of slide-illustrated lectures, films, and hands-on experience, using information from the text as well as the instructor's own experience. Numerous case studies of actual archaeological excavations and research projects are discussed in order to illustrate the course content. All students will participate in either a field or laboratory project under the direction of the instructor so that they will have direct involvement in the recovery and processing of archaeological artifacts.

4. Goals and Objectives of the Course

1. Students will acquire a basic understanding of the archaeological field.
2. Students will acquire a basic understanding of analytical procedures.
3. Students will be introduced to archaeological theory.
4. Students will obtain an introduction to the prehistoric culture history of major areas of North America.
5. Students will gain a greater awareness of and appreciation for past cultures in general and prehistoric Native Americans in particular.
6. Students who wish to pursue the study of archaeology could use this class as a necessary prerequisite for more advanced coursework.

5. Assessment Measures

Students will be evaluated through in-class examinations with both objective and essay sections and at least one short paper, to be written outside class. The student's participation in the field or laboratory exercise will also be graded.

6. Other Course Information

There is an attendance policy for the class. In-class participation (student questions and discussion) is encouraged.

7. Review and Approval

DATE ACTION REVIEWED
January 2004 Reviewed Dr. Peggy A. Shifflett, Chair