Introduction to Archaeological Excavation

Monday 3rd June – Friday 14th June 2024 Monday 17th June – Friday 28th June 2024 Monday 1st July – Friday 12th July 2024

2 Week Course-SS109-(6ECTS or 3US Credit Hours)

Course Outline

This intensive module is designed to provide students with their first taste of archaeological excavation. It will explain the varied methods used by archaeologists to excavate different types of site, whilst providing practical experience of at least one of those methods in the field.

The module will also train students in a number of basic necessary skills, including:

grid establishment and use
trowelling techniques
artefact recovery and recording
sampling methodology
context recording
planning and photography

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 beginners, for anyone with an interest in the past and archaeological excavation.

Duration: Two weeks, including middle Saturday.

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)

Field tuition in the following:

Site layout
Cutting preparation
Trowelling techniques
On-site sample processing
Artefact recovery
Feature excavation
The recording system
Use of the automatic level
Context sampling
Excavation photography
Context recording
Section and profile drawing
Plan drawing
Equipment use
Primary post-excavation procedures

Course Fee: €2,995

This includes:

- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Equipment
- Insurance
- 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

Introduction to Archaeological Excavation