This free online course delves into Archaeology, its origins, history, aims, functions, disciplines and purpose.

Are you fascinated by human evolution, ancient culture and language? Do you have a passion for history and wish to learn about the rise of early civilisations? Archaeology gives you the chance to discover past human behaviour through the hidden material or objects they left behind. Archaeology is all about discovering and investigating the ancient world to modern society. We learn how people lived their lives, where they lived and what they wore and ate. This course explores various techniques used to conduct site surveys and interpret artefacts. First, we introduce you to the concept of Archaeology, its goals, roles and responsibilities. We’ll show you the relationship between archaeology and other disciplines. Gain in-depth knowledge of its history and archaeological timelines. 

Archaeologists are always searching for ways to predict how cultures will change in the future and how to plan better. A person with clear objectives and a campaign plan is more likely to succeed than someone with neither. We discuss how archaeologists carry out their research and strategy, set their objectives and approach archaeological surveys. Artefacts are the objects people in the past left behind and they help archaeologists answer questions or explain problems. Artefacts can be exciting to find and sometimes no digging is necessary. You’ll learn how to find archaeological sites through surveys and how to record and map sites. The excavation of an area is a destructive process requiring the systematic removal of soils. Different types of technology are used to predict what is under the ground without digging. This course will explore these technologies and the best excavation methods for each unique situation.

Once an area has been excavated, attention switches to the laboratories, processing the finds and site records. These include the excavation's full report with text on the features and structures, catalogues and drawings of discoveries and specialists' reports. Discover various methods used in the post-excavation analysis, including the excavation and documentation process. You will study the multiple ways in which archaeologists date past events within our timespan. Humans have always used ideas and models to interpret the world around us. It is almost impossible to describe something or someone without linking them to a source for verification. The same is true in this field. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of different interpretations. Archaeology is a unique subject offering a wide range of analytical, practical and social skills that you can develop. Government agencies and non-governmental organisations rate individuals with archaeological backgrounds highly. If you have a passion for history and site expeditions and wish to expand your knowledge in Archaeology, then this course is designed for you.