Unit information: Artefact Handling in 2014/15

Unit name	Artefact Handling
Unit code	ARCH20037
Credit points	10
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Powlesland
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Department of Anthropology and Archaeology
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This unit provides an introduction to artefacts and their representation in archaeology through drawing & photography and combines two one day lectures, each with practical 'hands-on' sessions. Students will be introduced to the various types of archaeological artefacts commonly found in excavations: lithics, pottery, metal and glass and the issues associated with representing these different types of object in a variety of archaeological publications & media. Students will be given instruction in technical drawing and photographic techniques for a variety of objects and expected to produce a poster/display board for display in a museum or public space of a chosen archaeological object. The poster will include drawings, photographs and a relevant background text with bibliography and will constitute the assessment for this unit.

Intended Learning Outcomes

1. To understand the different types & qualities of materials and the appropriate methods for their reproduction in archaeological contexts/publications.
2. To enhance their observation and technical drawing skills within an archaeological setting.
3. To enhance their understanding of photography, both theoretical & practical within an archaeological framework.
4. To understand and interpret visual information within an archaeological context and present an interpretation for the non-specialist.
5. To undertake documentary research & interpret this archaeological data for the non-specialist.

Teaching Information

Two one day lectures & practical sessions.

Assessment Information

One poster or display board to contain drawings, photos and relevant text (100%) Assesses ILOs 1-5

Reading and References

Evening, M. 2011. Adobe Photoshop CS5 for Photographers, Focal Press, London.

Langford, M.J. 2000. Basic Photography (7th Ed), Focal Press, London.

Davies, A. & Fennessy, P. 1997. Electronic Imaging for Photographers, Focal Press, London.

Ang, T. 2006. Digital Photography Handbook, Dorling Kindersley, London.

Dorrell, P.G. 1994. Photography in Archaeology & Conservation, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

Griffiths, N. Jenner, A. & Wilson, C. 1990. Drawing Archaeological Finds; a Handbook, no.13, University College London, Institute of Archaeology.

Allen, S.J. 1994. Illustration of Wooden Artefacts, AAI&S.