Environmental Archaeology: methods in theory and practice 30 credits

About the course

Traces of ancient human activity, as well as traces of environmental and climate change that have affected humans, can be studied using environmental archaeological methods. The course provides in-depth knowledge of environmental archaeological investigation methods and analytical techniques. Archaeobotanical analysis, insect analysis, pollen analysis and various chemical and physical analyses of soil materials are examples of the applied methods. Through practical fieldwork and laboratory work, both in groups and individually, different sampling strategies are practiced through soil material investigations and archaeological excavations.

The course also deals with the theories and methods on which environmental archaeology is based. The role of environmental archaeology in archaeological research and contract archaeology is discussed, as well as the possibilities of environmental archaeology in today's society. Through various case studies, a problem-based, interdisciplinary approach based on both theory and empirical data is conveyed.

The course consists of four modules:

Module 1. Environmental Archaeological Field Methodology 7.5 credits 
The module focuses on environmental archaeological field methods through study visits, field investigations and sampling in the field. The students are introduced to different soil types and sediments as well as to documentation, sampling strategies and field analytical methods. The aim is to provide practical experience of how environmental archaeological material is identified, collected and handled as a basis for further analysis and interpretation.

Module 2. Theory and History of Research 7.5 credits
The module places environmental archaeological research in a historiographical context and relates environmental archaeological scientific methods to archaeological and other scientific traditions. Environmental archaeology is a subject that often uses scientifically based methods to address archaeological problems. The module provides insight into this interdisciplinary approach.
Module 3. Environmental Archaeological Laboratory Methodology 7.5 credits 
The module includes laboratory-based analyses of the material and information collected during module 1, Environmental Archaeological Field Methodology. The focus is on the processing, analysis and interpretation of environmental archaeological data with the aim of reconstructing site activities, resource use and landscape development over time.
Module 4. Methods and Case Studies 7.5 credits
The module focuses on how methods from the natural sciences and the humanities can be integrated to address research questions. Examples are provided of various interdisciplinary case studies, including both older and current work at national and international levels. Critical review and discussion of the case studies are included.

Please note that the modules may be given in a different order or run parallel to each other during the course.