AR3S9-Coastal and Maritime Archaeology
Module Provider: Archaeology
Number of credits: 20 [10ECTS credits]
Level:
H (Honours)
Terms in which taught: Autumn and Summer
Module Convenor: Professor
MG
Bell
Pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2008/9
Email: m.g.bell@reading.ac.uk
Aims:
To provide an understanding of the distinctive nature of coastal archaeology, the main types of site and evidence, the contexts in which that evidence occurs, the methods employed and how archaeology relates to other aspects of coastal zone management.
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the course it is expected that the student will be able:
Additional outcomes:
The course will enhance the students' ability to evaluate the management of heritage resources in relation to environmental management, impact assessment and nature conservation. Key current issues such as sea-level rise, sea-defence upgrading and managed retreat will be introduced. Seminars will enhance critical and presentational skills and the ability to work as members of a team tackling the challenges of the ever changing coastal zone.
Outline content:
The course investigates why the coastal zone is distinctive in terms of the diversity of resources, rhythmical tidal cycles and issues of liminality, cultural contact and the allure of the exotic. Coastal processes and landforms which provide the context for the preservation of sites will be introduced, including conditions of exceptional organic preservation from nets and wood artefacts to ships. The techniques of survey and excavation used in these contexts will be introduced. Middens and fishing practice will be considered. We will consider the role of log boats in prehistory and sewn boats of the Bronze and Iron Age. The role of the coastal zone as an agricultural resource will be examined, both pastoralism, crops, manuring and later reclaimed landscapes. In the Classical and Medieval world the significance of ships as a microcosm will be considered providing artefacts of a defined chronological horizon and evidence of patterns of trade and cultural interaction. The role of coastal and maritime heritage in coastal zone management will be considered including its relationship to nature conservation.
Fieldtrip
A one day fieldtrip to the Severn Estuary (or other appropriate area) provides a field introduction to coastal sediment sequences, the distinctive forms of archaeological evidence preserved within them and current heritage management issues.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures and linked seminars, each student will give an oral presentation and contribute to each seminar. An essay topic, selected from a list, will provide the opportunity for a more detailed review of a topic within the course.
Contact hours:
| Autumn | Spring | Summer | |
| Lectures | 16 | 2 | |
| Tutorials/seminars | 4 | ||
| Field trip | (8) | ||
| Other contact (eg study visits) | |||
| Total hours | 20(+8) | 2 | |
| Number of essays or assignments | |||
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
Assessment:
Coursework
One essay 4000 words (60%), oral seminar presentations (10%) critical review of a coastal or maritime survey or monograph (2000 words, 30%).
Relative percentage of coursework: 100%
Requirements for a pass
40%
Reassessment arrangements
Re-submission of coursework in August/September
Last updated: 3 December 2008