Module overview
Archaeological knowledge is generated through research, whether undertaken in an academic, commercial, public or private environment. As students, you are recipients of the knowledge gained through research, and you will also participate in the research process through involvement in fieldwork and the production of your Dissertation. But how does research happen? Who does research? Who consumes research? How is it funded or supported? What are the constraints and ethical issues encountered while undertaking research? Most critical of all, what makes good archaeological research?
In this module we guide you through the archaeological and heritage research process, from planning, to implementation, and final dissemination through publication and other media. This will be achieved by introducing you to a range of real-life research projects, drawing upon the diverse and rich experience gained by departmental staff and external researchers. Looking back and looking forward, the module will aid your understanding of the fieldwork you may have participated in during the Field and Practice module, and help in guiding you through the process of researching and writing your Final Year Dissertation.