Course Catalogue

Archaeology 1B: Archaeology in the Modern World ARCH1002

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Humanities
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 1 (SCQF level 7)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

How does archaeology affect society? Why is archaeology important in the modern world? This course introduces the theory and practice of archaeology and the responsibilities of the archaeologist. In exploring these themes, we consider the role of governments, the general public, the popular media, museums, the antiquities trade, and archaeologists. We will also explore how archaeology is practised and presented to the public, and the implications this has for the ways in which archaeology has been used as a tool for creating communities, identities and legitimacy.

Timetable

Lectures: Tuesday and Thursday at 12noon over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus; weekly one hour seminar (choice of times) over 8 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus. One-day field trip on a Saturday.

Requirements of Entry

None

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ 90-minute exam: 50%

■ Four 500-word worksheets: 50%

(The worksheets have a substantial number of pictorial and numerical exercises, hence their lower word count but proportionally higher weighting)

 

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ There is no alternative to the exam, but extra time/alternative space can be offered as reasonable adjustment.

■ There is no alternative to the worksheets, but extensions to the deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustment (students should follow the usual process for extensions).

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

This course aims to:

■ explain the roles, practices and responsibilities of archaeologists in the modern world

■ explore the relationship of archaeology with stakeholders such as governments, the general public, museums, and the antiquities trade

■ explain the political and ethical dimensions of archaeological and heritage practice

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of the course students will be able to:

■ evaluate the relevance of archaeology to contemporary society

■ identify and evaluate current issues that impact archaeological practice

■ critically assess the factors that influence our interpretation and understanding of the archaeological record

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions