Interdisciplinary research designs in environmental archaeology (PHD802)
This course deals with interdisciplinary research in environmental archaeology, i.e. relationships between past societies and the natural world (plants, animals and landscapes). Central to the course is project designs and methodological approaches of research topics primarily combining paleoecology and archaeology. The focus will be on Scandinavian archaeology from where ongoing research and relevant literature will be presented, analysed and discussed. During the course, the candidates get the possibility to advance their own research, by using their own projects as examples.
Course description for study year 2024-2025. Please note that changes may occur.
Course code
PHD802
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
5
Semester tution start
Spring
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Spring
Language of instruction
English, Norwegian
Content
The course will be centred on themes related to interdisciplinary research in Scandinavian archaeology. The themes will be addressed through student presentations, lectures by established researchers, classroom discussions (seminars) and a written assignment.
Themes:
- Geoarchaeology
- Archaeobotany
- Wetland archaeology
- Landscape reconstruction
- Agricultural development
- Natural resources
Human-environment interactions (driving forces, impact, feedback)
The students will present papers from the themes included in the course, followed by discussions by all participants. The presentations should be prepared before the course starts.
Lectures will provide an overview of interdisciplinary research designs and methodology. Case studies of current research in environmental archaeology will be presented, with a focus on methodological approaches used to address different research questions.
The course will enable the PhD-student to develop his/her own research project. The post-course assignment may be part of the candidate's project and should be related to current archaeological research.
Learning outcome
Knowledge
After completing the course the student should:
- have advanced knowledge of research designs used in environmental archaeology
- be able to evaluate methods used in environmental archaeology
- be able to develop new methodological approaches in environmental archaeology
Skills
After completing the course the student should:
- be able to formulate new research questions, plan and execute research in environmental archaeology
- be able to conduct research in environmental archaeology at an international level
- be able to handle complex research questions and challenge existing knowledge in environmental archaeology
General competence
After completing the course the student should:
- be able to identify ethical dilemmas and conduct research with integrity
- be able to handle complex interdisciplinary research assignments
- be able to communicate academic issues, analyses and conclusions in the field at an international level
- be able to contribute to new thinking and innovation processes
Required prerequisite knowledge
Exam
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active class room participation Post-course assignment | 1/1 | Passed / Not Passed |
Students need to attend a one-week on-campus study programme. Presence is mandatory (MP). Mandatory requirements: 75% presence. If students do not fulfil the MP requirement, students will have to pass an assignment given by the course coordinators in order to take the course exam.