Archaeology and Education

This module examines the ways in which archaeologists, and educators, have furthered an understanding and appreciation of archaeology in both formal and non-formal education in Britain.

The module will be useful for those intending to work in archaeology, in heritage management or in a museum.

Site visits and practical projects to examine resources for educational groups and information for the visiting public will be carried out.

Aims of the module

The module aims to develop the student's knowledge and understanding of the history and development of education in archaeology, both in the formal curricula at all levels and in non-formal learning situations for adults and children at archaeological sites, monuments and museums.

The module will examine the ways in which archaeologists, and educators, have furthered an understanding and appreciation of archaeology in both formal and non-formal education. It will be useful for those intending to work in archaeology, in heritage management or in a museum. A site visit and practical projects to examine resources for educational groups and information for the visiting public will be carried out.

Objectives

An important focus of this module will be the development of a student's ability critically to analyse current research and practice in resource provision and services for archaeology and education.

In addition, students will gain an appreciation of issues concerning the links between the formalised curricula and the historic environment. All subjects will be examined, including citizenship and the issues which surround it.

Learning Outcomes

A key outcome is to train students for independent research and careers in education services in the historic environment, in related professions, or in other professions, such as teaching, where such training will be useful.

On successful completion of the module students should be able to demonstrate:

• A knowledge of the development of archaeology and education and of the methods used by archaeologists and heritage managers to inform and educate formal groups and the visiting public
• A knowledge of current practices in education at archaeological sites, monuments and museums
• An understanding of the key issues in providing and maintaining on-site and outreach programmes for archaeological education and to have acquired skills in:
• Critically examining and discussing resources and services provided for archaeological education
• Applying learning and research to designing curriculum-based material for educational groups and information for general visitors to archaeological sites, monuments and museums.

Teaching Methods

The module is taught through lectures using powerpoint presentations, videos, discussions and practical exercises in class. In addition, a fieldtrip will be arranged to give students greater familiarity with the methods and techniques covered in the module.

Module information

• Code: ARCL0127  
• Credits: 15
• Coordinator: tbc
• Prerequisite: This module does not have a prerequisite.
• Handbook: open»

For registered students

• Moodle page: open»
• Reading list: open

Availability

• Not running in 2023-24