Environmental Archaeology: methods in theory and practice

About this programme

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. 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.