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University of Reading

Archaeology: from Dig to Lab and Beyond

University of Reading via FutureLearn

Overview

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Chart the progress of an archaeological excavation from dig to lab and beyond.

We’ll show you around our field school at the Vale of Pewsey, a relatively untouched site compared to its famous neighbour, Stonehenge.

An excavation is more than just digging with a trowel. You’ll investigate how and where to dig, collect, record and store precious finds and take a closer look at what you can learn from a discovery once you’ve found it.

One of the most intriguing finds of all is a burial site and you’ll examine the archaeological methods employed in the study of the dead. How can you recreate the life, health and occupation of an individual just from their skeletal remains?

No prior experience of archaeology is needed. This course is designed for anyone interested in studying an archaeology degree at university. However, anyone with an enthusiastic interest in archaeology is very welcome to join us too.

Syllabus

  • The Dig
    • Welcome to our virtual field school
    • Preparing and planning a dig
    • History of the Vale of Pewsey
    • Unearthing Marden and Wilsford Henge
    • The Field School
    • The discoveries
  • The Lab
    • Welcome to week two
    • The life of an apprentice
    • Health of the apprentice
    • Museums
    • Review and reflect

Taught by

Duncan Garrow

Reviews

4.0 rating, based on 4 Class Central reviews

4.8 rating at FutureLearn based on 517 ratings

Start your review of Archaeology: from Dig to Lab and Beyond

  • The archaeology course from the University of Reading was easy to follow & was very informative. It took around 3-4 hours to complete.
  • Excellent course for anyone looking to learn more about archeology. Things are very well explained. It gives you introduction in what is happening on dig, who works there, chronological timetable, idea about osteology and many more. It was my first online course and it gave me motivation to carry on.
  • Profile image for Sheri Havens
    Sheri Havens
    Very basic archaeology course. Don't waste your time. Much better courses are out there. I was done with this course as soon as I got through listening to the videos and what little reading they had.
  • Profile image for Dawn Gibson
    Dawn Gibson
    This was my first mini-course course (2 weeks), and my first FutureLearn course. I loved it! It was very informative, well organized, and user friendly.

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