https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/L_AABAARC101Students who successfully complete this course will have a basic knowledge of and insight into:The nature, aims and objectives of modern archaeology and its relationship with (ancient) history, anthropology and the sciencesThe history of archaeology as an academic discipline, with attention for shifts in nature, aims and objectives and theoretical frameworksThe relationship between material culture and patterns in human behaviour and thinking, as well as current methods to study this relationshipThe various theoretical perspectives involved in reconstructing past human behaviour and societies, with special attention for the role of anthropology and historyThe role of archaeology and heritage in the contemporary worldThis first level course offers students an introduction to key concepts and practical approaches in archaeology. Students will become acquainted with the nature, aims and research objectives of modern-day archaeology. They will also gain an insight into the history of archaeology as an academic discipline and its (evolving) relationship with (ancient) history, anthropology and the natural sciences. Students will be introduced to the various ways in which archaeologists use material culture to reconstruct the human past and past societies, with special attention being paid to the role of anthropological and historical approaches. The links between archaeological theory and practice will be further explored by the use of case studies drawn from a wide range of time periods and geographical regions. Finally, consideration will also be given to the politics of archaeology, and an introduction will be given to the opportunities and challenges that face archaeology and heritage in today’s world. Depending on the general timetable and the availability of ongoing excavations a (non-mandatory) field trip may be organized.Lectures (3 x 2 hours per week).Written examination. A minimum score of 55% (or 5.5 on a scale of 10) is needed to pass the course. The resit regulations will be specified in the study manual.Renfrew, C./Bahn, P./DeMarrais, E., 2024,Archaeology: Theories, Methods and Practice, Thames & Hudson, ninth edition.Syllabus, with guidelines how to approach the handbook and with trial questions and points of discussion for each class.First year students in Archaeology.Second year students Ancient Studies with a specialization in Archaeology.Also available to other students as an elective; no entry requirements.First year ACASA students are automatically placed. Other students can register for this course via UvA https://glass.uva.nlVU students who would like to follow this course as an elective need to request a guest registration at the UvA. See for more information: https://www.uva.nl/en/education/other-programmes/electives/electives.html Please note:Course registration periods between VU and UvA differ.This course is scheduled at the University of Amsterdam.This course is part of a joined programme by the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) and the University of Amsterdam (UvA). It is taught at a UvA location. For the course schedule see https://rooster.uva.nl/