Intro to Archaeology/Prehistory

ANT 103 – Intro to Archaeology/Prehistory taught by Professor Mark W. Allen

In this course I will be learning how in the United States and many other parts of the world, archaeology is one of the four major sub-fields of anthropology. It involves the study of the human past (both distant and not so distant), largely through the study of material cultural remains and their context. This course first briefly explores the basic methods of archaeological fieldwork, research goals, and introduces students to the basics of archaeological theory. The course then turns to a global survey of human cultural and technological development from early humans to the rise of urban states and world civilizations. The course will also address some of the ethical and professional concerns and issues facing archaeology today.

How will this tie in with my senior project? Forensic anthropology requires many of the basic attributes and expertise of many of the anthropology subcategories in order to be able to critically think and acquire all of the evidence necessary to solve a crime. Not only is forensic anthropology dealing with the skeletal remains, but the soil they were found, natural components, items found with, as well as insect remnants.

So far what I can connect with my senior project and this class is how the Neantherthal's skull greatly differs with that of a Homo sapean's skull and how it will be able to help give important details that are found in investigations such as: is this human? Professor Allen makes the "dirty work" of the anthropological standpoint seem rather fun and enjoyable experience if you have an incredible amount of patience and have an eye of detail to be able to use in the workforce.


Professor Allen will be focusing in making sure we learn/know the following:

1. How archaeology (in the United States and other countries) is a branch of anthropology that deals with cultures of the past. 
2. The basic methods, theories, and goals of archaeological research. 
3. Describe the nature of cultural developments in most parts of the world, as learned through archaeological research. 
4. Appreciate the ethical questions and other current issues facing archaeology.

I know that this class will be a relatively helpful resource for my senior presentation for being the roots of forensic anthropology.