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Institute of Archaeology

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Prehistoric Stone Artefact Analysis

This module will examine the different ways in which human behaviour is reflected in the production and use of knapped and ground stone artefacts.

This module will explore a variety of analytical approaches and the ways these can be used for the interpretation of technological, cognitive, economic, and social issues.

The Institute has extensive tool reference material, and we will concentrate on material from Europe, the Near East, and Africa. The possibility to undertake experimental flint knapping will also be given.

Aims of the module

The aims of the module are:

  • To promote a comprehensive understanding of the type of information that lithic artefacts can provide about past human behaviour.
  • To explore the range of analytical techniques, methods and theoretical perspectives lithic specialists employ to study stone tool assemblages.

Objectives

On successful completion of this module a student should:

  • Be familiar with the analytical and theoretical approaches used in lithic analysis.
  • Understand the ways in which lithics as a form of material culture inform us about the human past.
  • Be able to critically evaluate reports on, and interpretations of lithic assemblages.
  • Be familiar with a range of case studies related to specific aspects of lithic analysis.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the module students should have developed:

  • Observational skills and critical reflection
  • Oral presentation skills
  • The ability to apply acquired knowledge of a topic
  • Be familiar with basic knapping skills

Teaching Methods

The module is taught through a series of lectures, seminars and discussion, and practical work.

Module information

  • Code: ARCL0101  
  • Credits: 15
  • Coordinator: Ceri Shipton
  • Prerequisite: You should have some background in lithics (from an undergraduate module (or part of a module), through professional experience).
  • Handbook: open»

For registered students

Availability

  • Running in 2023-24