This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module consists of supervised research undertaken by the student. The module offers students the timescale, scope, support and opportunity to explore in detail an area or body of evidence of interest to them and to present the results in a format reflecting standards and conventions seen in publications in professional and academic archaeology. Work in the field may include the first hand gathering of data employing professional methods and equipment within a guided framework, with an emphasis on student skills acquisition. Students will develop skills in handling and assessing this evidence and, in turn, presenting it in a manner that mirrors present best vocational practice, with innovatory approaches encouraged where suitable. It is of primary importance that students demonstrate a critical appreciation of the methods, evidence and related issues in the report they submit. The module will allow students to develop a curriculum around their own research and vocational interests and training needs.
Total contact hours: 6
This module is compulsory for students studying on the MA in Archaeology.
Report (8000 words) - 100%
Students will be expected to familiarize themselves with the reading material specified for the core modules of their programmes of study. Beyond this requirement, relevant reading will be suggested by the module supervisor and other staff such as the Departmental Archaeological Technician, geared towards the student's particular area of interest. Students will be expected to seek out other relevant literature on the subject and the methodology/equipment used.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate skills in initiating and carrying forward an independent programme of practical archaeological research;
Students will be able to demonstrate comprehensive and critical knowledge of a specialist area, category of evidence or theme within archaeology (including heritage);
Demonstrate their particular study to the broad perspective of their MA Programme;
Demonstrate the relevance of their research project to studies in archaeology/Roman history and archaeology;
Demonstrate professional and confident skills in collecting, handling and processing archaeological data/evidence in a manner that reflects contemporary professional and specialist (vocational) practice in archaeology;
Demonstrate professional and confident skills in using and applying, for instance, specialist archaeological equipment, computing programmes, and related research methods, such as the use of geophysical survey equipment, digital scanners, microscopes, materials characterization tools, GIS and excel software;
Demonstrate skills in independent research and presentation of material;
Show full awareness of the academic discourse in the areas relevant to their research interest;
Demonstrate their skills in critical analysis;
Demonstrate their research, IT and library skills;
Demonstrate skills in data/evidence handling and presentation;
Demonstrate responsibility and autonomy in learning and debate.
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