Key facts

UNE unit code: ARPA300

*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.

Start
  • Trimester 2 - Online
24/7 online support
  • Yes
Intensive schools
  • No
Supervised exam
  • Yes
Credit points
  • 6

Unit information

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Archaeological practice and theory have changed dramatically over the last century, with significant implications on the questions we ask, how we design research, make our interpretations, and understand the implications of our work.

In this unit you will explore some of the major movements in archaeological thought and approaches over the last century, including key debates, conflicts and ethical dilemmas within the discipline.

This theoretical review acts as a springboard for you to consider the principles of advanced research design and the integration between theory and method. As part of your study, you will have the opportunity to develop a viable research project proposal, so you can hone your skills in the planning of archaeological research design.

Offerings

For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.

Teaching period
Mode/location
Trimester 2Online

*Offering is subject to availability

Intensive schools

There are no intensive schools required for this unit.

Enrolment rules

Pre-requisites
24cp in ARPA or candidature in a postgraduate award
Restrictions
ARPA500
Combined units

Notes

Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.

Unit coordinator(s)

profile photo of Melanie Fillios
Melanie FilliosDirector of Place Based Education and Research | Archaeology - School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. understand the development of archaeological thought and approaches over the last century;
  2. demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between data collection, analysis and interpretation in archaeological research;
  3. analyse the implications of the major schools of thought in archaeological research and interpretation and form an opinion about their respective benefits and drawbacks;
  4. engage in informed debate regarding the ethical issues surrounding the study of archaeology; and
  5. demonstrate skills in the planning of an archaeological research design.

Assessment information

Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.

TitleMust CompleteWeightOfferingsAssessment Notes
Assessment 1Yes20%All offerings

Students will engage in a written exercise that will require critical analysis of archaeological evidence and ideas.

No. Words: 1000

Assessment 2Yes30%All offerings

Research design task

No. Words: 2000

Assessment 3 - Assurance TaskYes50%All offerings
Supervised Online Exam
 
This online exam will be supervised via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit.
 
Students must obtain at least 50% in the examination (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit.
 
No. Words: 2000

Learning resources

Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.

Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.

Archaeological Theory: An Introduction

ISBN: 9781118475027

Johnson, M., Wiley-Blackwell| 3rd ed. 2019

Note: Also available as an eBook from Dixson Library.

Text refers to: All offerings

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