Develop archaeological questions and sampling strategies
Human & Social Systems · Anthropology & Archaeology
ARCH-220Archaeological Method & Interpretation
Introduces archaeological reasoning from research design and survey through excavation, classification, chronology, interpretation, and reporting.
Course outcomes
What students develop
Interpret context, association, formation processes, and chronology
Evaluate material classifications and inferential limits
Produce a professional archaeological report section
Course content
Topics and questions
- Survey and excavation
- Stratigraphy and chronology
- Artifact classification
- Formation processes
- Inference, analogy, and explanation
Methods & resources
Tools and environments
- Field recording systems
- Collections and comparative materials
- GIS and database tools
Evaluation
Demonstration of learning
- Research design
- Context analysis
- Artifact study
- Technical report
Program relationships
Where this course fits
Core
Anthropology, Technology & Society
Studies culture, human difference, technology, institutions, material life, and social change through comparative and field-based inquiry.
Core
Digital Archaeology & Heritage Science
Connects archaeological method to GIS, remote sensing, 3D digitization, materials analysis, research computing, and digital stewardship.
Core
AI-Assisted Archaeology
Computer vision, geospatial computation, archival text analysis, data preparation, validation, and archaeological interpretation.
Core
Archaeometry & Materials Analysis
Materials characterization, XRF, calibration, quality control, archaeological context, provenance reasoning, and technical reporting.
Core
Archaeological Survey & Digital Documentation
Field survey, GIS, context recording, photography, 3D capture, artifact documentation, and technical reporting.
Core
Cultural Resource Compliance & Reporting
Continuing education in project scoping, records research, field documentation, partner coordination, analytical synthesis, and professional cultural-resource reporting.
Course inquiry
Connect this course to a program, certificate, or professional objective.
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