James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

AR2402:03

Maritime Archaeology Field School *

40 hours fieldwork.

Available to students who hold appropriate diving certification and satisfy the competency requirements of the University Diving Officer. A quota will apply.

This subject provides the student with an introduction to the techniques of underwater survey, position fixing, mapping, photography (including video), detailed recording and conservation. Relevant lectures will be provided on the various research approaches used by maritime archaeologists and the different techniques employed.

Learning Objectives:

1. develop skills in recording cultural material in the underwater environment;
2. instruction in how to excavate and recover cultural material underwater;
3. knowledge of the methods and techniques appropriate to the study of different types of wrecks and submerged structures;
4. appreciation of the safety factors and logistics involved in carrying out research in the underwater environment.

Assessment by two-hour examination (30%); practical field test (30%); participation (40%).