Archaeology - How Archaeologists Think
The module is designed to enable you to grasp the basics of archaeological theory. It builds on themes of archaeological study and interpretation introduced in prior modules by examining the ways in which archaeologists make sense of the past: the kinds of questions we ask, how we answer them, and why we ask these sorts of questions. This is because the ways in which we think about the past directly influence what (we think) we know about it.
Duration
Autumn Trimester - September to December
MODE OF DELIVERY:Blended
Eligibility
Not applicable to this module.
Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Incompatibles:
ARCH20020 - Interpreting Archaeology
Careers / Further progression
Open Learning means you can fit university around your life. Whether you're looking to progress your career, or you've just finished school and wondering if university is for you, Open Learning fits around your schedule and gives you all the benefits of being a full-time student, without the full-time commitment.
Open Learning allows you to select the modules you wish to study, set the pace of your study, and whether you undertake the module assessment. It also can lead to undergraduate degree entry in UCD if you are taking the Certificate in Open Learning (30 credits) or if you are a Mature Student you can take one module (5 credits) in lieu of the MSAP exam.
There are 14 Progression Pathways to choose from Students who earn 30 credits (6 x 5 credit modules) receive a NFQ Level 7 Certificate in Open Learning. This can be used to apply through the CAO for dedicated places on 14 different UCD degree programmes depending on Grade Point Average (GPA) and modules completed.
Further information
TRIMESTER: Autumn
To get started, you need to first complete and submit an online pre-registration form. Applications will reopen again on 8 August 2023.
Together, we will examine the history of archaeological thought: introducing the key thinkers in archaeology from the nineteenth century to the present, examining how they developed and transformed the approaches of their predecessors. We explore the ways in which different philosophers and thinkers influenced these developments in the theory and practice of archaeology, as well as their broader social and economic context.
The module is constructed around weekly sessions. Each week you will be expected to do work in advance (e.g. reading and keeping a reflective learning journal) and be prepared to contribute in class.
You will be encouraged to participate actively in understanding how archaeological thought changed over time and to also confront your own ideas about human culture.
Particular attention is paid to enabling you to critically reflect on the approaches taken to the study of the human past, especially how you personally approach archaeological evidence. This will equip you for all your subsequent Archaeology modules and assist you in relating issues of archaeological interpretation back to key debates in the wider humanities and social sciences.
We have a dedicated team who supports the Open Learning programme:
Jenny Doyle, Centre Operations Manager - jennifer.doyle@ucd.ie
Lucy and Ciarán are members of our Operations Team and they can also help you with your queries. Get in touch with us by emailing all@ucd.ie