James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2020

AR1001 - The World of Archaeology

Subject Description

What is archaeology? And what, exactly, do archaeologists do? During the first lectures of this subject we introduce you to the tools and techniques of the practical archaeologist. We then move on to consider the biggest question in archaeology (and related disciplines) - As a species, how did we get to be what we are today? We begin by investigating our evolutionary origins in tropical Africa and explanations of how our ancestors then colonised the world while at the same time developing physically and intellectually into us. Using case studies from different regions of the world, we investigate past lifestyles and adaptations. Further key questions include: Why did some human societies take up farming? Why did some human societies go on to develop the early urban societies from which our modern (human) world has emerged?

Learning Outcomes

• demonstrate a working knowledge of what archaeology is about and how it relates to other fields of study
• be able to discuss theories and models of human evolution at a rudimentary level
• demonstrate a basic understanding of key points regarding the developmehnt of the human species to date (biologically and culturally)
• demonstrate a useful knowledge of the importance of tropical Australia, Asia and the Pacific in understanding the human past

Subject Assessment

• Non-Invigilated > Essays - (40%)
• - (20%)
• Invigilated > Centrally-administered final exam - (40%)

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

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