OVERVIEW

This course offers advanced training in archaeological research methodology, equipping students with theoretical and practical tools for analyzing material traces and reconstructing past human behaviors.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Aim of the course is giving more insight on the theme of the potential and purposes of archaeological research in the field, through an analysis of the link between the complexity of the material traces of the past and the technical and theoretical systems used for their identification, decoding and interpretation. Individual traces and entire contexts will be analyzed in their material and logical aspects as the result of processes of transformation of matter referable to the stratification of natural events and behavioral systems.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, students will have developed a well-rounded set of theoretical and practical skills essential for the analysis of material evidence in archaeology. They will be able to:

• Identify and classify archaeological traces as indicators of human behavior
• Grasp the epistemological significance of traces, with a focus on the theoretical foundations of archaeological inference
• Interpret material evidence within its stratigraphic, functional, and cultural contexts through an integrated approach combining archaeology, ethnoarchaeology, archaeometry, and anthropology
• Reconstruct past human behaviors by analyzing structures, objects, use-wear surfaces, and material residues, with particular attention to use, reuse, technical gestures, and transformative processes
• Critically evaluate the interpretive reliability of traces, distinguishing between those originating from the systemic context and those shaped by archaeological formation processes
• Integrate material traces into historical reconstruction, contributing to the interpretation of practices, settlement patterns, production systems, and socio-cultural dynamics

These competencies provide a strong foundation for careers in archaeological research, heritage conservation and management, and for pursuing advanced academic training and doctoral studies in the field.

PREREQUISITES

A foundational understanding of archaeological research methodology will significantly enhance comprehension of the course topics.

TEACHING METHODS

Classes are conducted in person. While attendance is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended.
Students with certified learning disabilities, disabilities, or other special educational needs are encouraged to contact both the instructor and the School/Department’s disability coordinator at the start of the course to discuss possible accommodations. These will be arranged to support individual learning needs while ensuring the course objectives are fully met.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The course offers a training path focused on the analysis of material manifestations of past human activities, with particular emphasis on the role of traces as sources for historical reconstruction. Through theoretical lectures and case study discussions, students will acquire critical and methodological tools to interpret archaeological evidence from a behavioral perspective. The syllabus is structured around the following key topics:

• Behavioral Archaeology: archaeological contexts between systemic and archaeological phases
• The informational potential of traces
• Obliteration layers
• Collapse layers
• Abandonment and pre-abandonment layers
• "Living" surfaces and occupation layers
• Traces of structures made with perishable materials: hides, plant matter, and earth
• Transformative processes and chronology
• Archaeological inference and the interpretation of human behavior
• The limits of material documentation

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Written exam reading list:

• E. C. Harris, Principi di stratigrafia archeologica, Rome 1983 (2012)
• S. Pallecchi, Archeologia delle tracce, Rome 2008
• M. B. Schiffer, Formation Processes of the Archaeological Record, Salt Lake City 1987

Oral exam reading list:

• M. Vidale, Che cos’è l’etnoarcheologia, Rome 2004

Attendance is not compulsory but is highly recommended. Students who are unable to attend are encouraged to contact the instructor to arrange an alternative examination program.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

https://corsi.unige.it/corsi/11936/studenti-orario

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam consists of a written test and an oral interview.
The written test will cover topics addressed during the course and listed in the required readings, and will include exercises involving the interpretation of stratigraphic matrices.
A minimum score of 18/30 is required to pass the written test, which is a prerequisite for admission to the oral exam.
The oral interview will begin with a discussion of the written test and will focus on further exploration of key themes, particularly those related to field-based archaeological research.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The exam aims to assess the following aspects of the student’s preparation:

• Mastery of the topics covered in the course
• Ability to recognize and classify archaeological traces
• Ability to interpret material evidence in relation to past human behavior
• Ability to critically assess the interpretive reliability of traces and integrate them into historical reconstruction

A solid understanding of the course content is required to meet the basic assessment criteria.
To attain excellence, students should demonstrate the ability to engage in critical reflection on the informational potential of both traces and contexts.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Ask the professor for other information not included in the teaching schedule."