Intermediate Archaeology Field Course Ireland

Intermediate Archaeological Excavation

2 Week Course-SS110-(6ECTS or 3US Credits) 

Course Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this module, students will:

• understand the organisation and daily running of an archaeological excavation
• have acquired intermediate skills of archaeological excavation and recording
• be familiar with primary post-excavation techniques
• possess the skills necessary to work on archaeological excavations worldwide at general operative or site-assistant level

Course Outline:

This intensive module is designed to train students in intermediate-level skills of archaeological excavation. It will explain the varied methods used by archaeologists to excavate different types of site and provide experience in a number of necessary skills, including grid establishment and use, trowelling techniques, feature excavation, artefact recovery and recording, sampling methodology, context recording, and planning and photography, in addition to basic excavation responsibilities and team supervision. This will be achieved through on-site talks and lectures, physical demonstrations, and hands-on experience.

Available academic credits: 6ECTS/ 3 US credit hours

Who should apply: This module is ideal for those with some experience of archaeological excavation, seeking to advance their skills.

Duration: Two weeks, including middle Saturday.

Practical Laboratory Content: Laboratory tuition in the following:

• Washing artefacts
• Numbering artefacts
• Basic conservation
• Artefact illustration
• Artefact cataloguing
• Artefact photography
• Data entry and analysis
• Sample washing
• Sample sieving and flotation
• Inking up excavation drawings
• Digitising excavation drawings

Assessment (for those seeking academic credit):

• Attendance at, and participation in, all scheduled fieldwork, field class and lectures
• Completion of a Learner’s Journal (daily entries, Introduction and Conclusion, illustrations)
• Short quiz / multi-choice test

Course Fee: €2,995

This includes:

• Tuition
• Accommodation
• Insurance
• Equipment
• Transport to and from the site daily
• Breakfast, Lunch and Evening Meal Monday to Saturday
• Tea break
• An allowance will be provided for weekend trips