The Archaeology of Islands (Residential Fieldtrip Module)

Overview

This module will introduce students to the archaeology of islands. Opening weeks will provide an overview of the conceptual issues surrounding the study of islands including the physical geography of islands, theories of island colonisation, concepts of insularity, material adaption and evolution in insular environments, and social resilience and decline on islands. This section of the course will be assessed through an essay. Following this, students will explore concepts through specific island case studies presented by staff and through directed leaning and seminars. This will be assessed via short projects/ posters. The module will have a substantial residential field work component; so the penultimate weeks will focus on preparation, exploring in depth issues specific to the fieldwork destination (currently Malta). Students will also receive training in basic recording methods prior to the fieldtrip and presentations to the class on sites (with an accompanying prepared fact sheet).

Learning Objectives

- An understanding of themes central to island archaeology including colonisation, insularity, adaptation and material evolution, climate resilience and collapse of island cultures;

- Critical interpretation of monuments, architecture, building materials and artefacts, within an island context;

- An awareness of current debates in island archaeologies;

- Critical understanding of how heritage Is presented as part of contemporary island identities;

- An understanding of the relevance of studying islands to current society.

Skills

· Observation and interpretation of material culture in the field and landscape

· Discussion skills

· Research skills

· Preparation of site reports and effective writing

· Presentation skills

· Critical understanding of popular archaeological media

· Teamwork and organisation

Assessment

All assessments are compulsory, as is attendance on the fieldtrip