Introduction to British Prehistory

Transcription

1 Introduction to British Prehistory Level: 1 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE1774 This module introduces students to a variety of key themes in British Prehistory, with a particular focus on the period from the end of the last Ice Age to the Roman invasion of AD43. It traces evidence for the human colonisation of Britain and Ireland, for the transition from gathering and hunting to farming and for the emergence of increasingly complex social institutions. Specific themes considered may include the intensification of food production, the development of field systems, evidence for increasing craft specialisation and the role played by monumental architecture in the transformation of societies through time. This unit aims to: provide students with a broad overview of the development of human societies in Britain up to the Roman invasion; outline some key areas of debate concerning the transition to farming and the emergence of complex social formations in Britain; illustrate the nature and variety of surviving archaeological remains relevant to the period through field studies. At the end of the module, students will: understand the basic chronological and technological frameworks employed in the study of British Prehistory; appreciate the variety of forms of sources of evidence available to archaeologists in the study of British Prehistory; be able to demonstrate awareness of the complexities as well as the limitations of archaeological interpretations applied to British Prehistory. 100% Coursework Bradley, R The Prehistory of Britain and Ireland Cambridge University Press Hunter, J. and Ralston, I. (eds) 1999 The Archaeology of Britain: an introduction from the Upper Palaeolithic to the Industrial Revolution Routledge, London Pollard, J. (ed) 2008 Prehistoric Britain Blackwell, OxfordStudents who are already registered with TILL and who have a valid UCard can access full reading lists for modules before they begin. They do so either via MUSE, under the "Library" tab, and "View Library resource lists"; or via the "How can I find my reading lists?" link on

2 Investigating Woodlands in the Local Region Level: 1 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE1797 This module examines the history of trees and woodlands in Britain from the last ice-age to the present, with reference to the local region. It also considers aspects of woodland management, such as, coppicing and pollarding and fuel provision and the introduction of exotic plants (such as, sweet chestnut and sycamore) and their influence on native species. The identification of trees, hedgerows and woodland flora and fauna is also investigated as well as indicators of 'ancient woodland'. This module includes several field studies to illustrate the content of the module. This unit aims to provide students with an understanding of the development and diversity of trees and woodlands in the local region. It also aims to develop an understanding of trees and woodlands as a human and natural resource and to enable students to identify selected woodland species. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to demonstrate: an understanding of the development of tree provision and woodland within the local region. the ability to identify woodland flora and aspects of native fauna. an awareness of aspects of human intervention and the management of woodlands with particular reference to the local area. 100% Project Jones, M Sheffield s Woodland Heritage Green Tree Publications with Wildtrack Publishing, Rotherham Marren, Peter 1990 Britain s Ancient Woodland: Woodland Heritage. David & Charles, London Peterken, G.F Woodland Conservation and Management Chapman & Hall London Rackham, Oliver 2006 Woodlands, Collins, London Rackham, Oliver 2001 Trees and Woodland in the British Landscape: New edition Weidenfeld & Nicholson History London

3 Individual Project in Archaeology Level: 1 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE1115 Restriction(s): Restricted to TILL named award students only or by agreement of programme director This module will enable students to undertake a supervised individual project of their own choice, but only after consultation with the Course Director. The module content will be based on knowledge obtained from other modules in archaeology presented by the Institute as part of a relevant named award programme. The module will provide supervision of an extended programme of genuine research, survey, or analysis, undertaken by the individual student. Students will be supervised by experienced tutors of archaeology in the production of their project, e.g. the selection of a suitable subject and the practicalities of data collection, analysis and final presentation. The module aims to: provide students with the opportunity to use the knowledge and skills gained from other modules in archaeology presented by the Division and to produce an individual project on an area of archaeological investigation which contributes to the overall archaeological record. develop confidence and ability in archaeological study. develop problem solving skills and the ability to present archaeological data and interpretation in a coherent manner. By the end of the module the student will: be able to use the knowledge and skills gained from other modules in archaeology presented by the Division to produce an individual project on an area of archaeological investigation which contributes to the overall archaeological record. develop confidence and ability in personal archaeological study. develop problem solving skills and be able to present archaeological data and interpretation in a coherent manner. 100% Project As indicated by the tutor for each individual project.

4 Field Techniques in Archaeology Level: 1 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE1112 Restriction(s): Not available to full-time undergraduates The module will demonstrate and explain the various techniques used to survey, record and sample archaeological remains in the field. The module will outline how various strategies can be used on archaeological sites to obtain a representative sample of the material left behind by past societies. Students will be introduced to various simple, scientific and technical equipment used to survey and record archaeological sites and how to produce scale representations in the form of maps, plans and elevations. As this module is concerned with practical aspects of archaeological study, it involves several day-long sessions in the field. These field sessions will be augmented by weekday evening sessions outlining desk-based activities and practical theory. The aims of the module are to: provide students with a basic working knowledge of archaeological field practices such as surveying techniques, sampling techniques and other aspects of archaeological recording including geophysics. show how scientific and technical equipment is used to enable the interpretation of the material evidence left behind by past societies. enable students to select appropriate survey methods over a range of different archaeological sites and features. At the end of the module, students will: have obtained a basic working knowledge of archaeological field practices such as surveying and sampling techniques and other aspects of archaeological recording including geophysics. be able to understand how simple, scientific and technical equipment is used to enable the interpretation and recording of the material evidence left behind by past societies. be able to select appropriate surveying methods for a range of different archaeological sites and features. 100% Coursework No key reading has been identified

5 Introduction to the Peak District Level: 1 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE1824 The Peak District is an area of outstanding natural beauty at the southern end of the Pennines. The module will study selected themes concerning the natural and human-made environment of Britain s first National Park. It will study aspects of the geology, ecology and archaeology of the limestone and gritstone areas of the Peak District as a series of inter-disciplinary or multidisciplinary approaches. Field studies will form a significant and integral part of this module. This unit aims to: provide an understanding of a selected range of natural and human-made environments of the Peak District, such as, aspects of past human activity, the natural and human influences forming the present landscape and the contrasting regions of the `White' and `Dark' Peaks. introduce and develop such field observation, recording and presentation skills as are necessary to aid and enhance such understanding of Peak District environments and landscapes. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to demonstrate: an understanding of the geological foundations, selected natural processes and aspects of past human activity in the Peak District. an ability to observe, record, understand, and critically summarise in the field, the natural and human influences forming the present landscape. an understanding of the different characteristics of two distinct and important environments of the Peak District the Dark Peak moorlands and the White Peak limestone dales and plateau. 55% Coursework 45% Field work No key reading has been identified

6 Introduction to Archaeology and the Historic Landscape Level: 1 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE1856 This module introduces the fundamental theory, methods and practice, which underpin the study of Archaeology and the historic landscape. It will outline the chronology of human settlement and explore the techniques used to try to understand the material evidence left behind. It also examines how the remains of past human activity are interpreted in the study of the wider landscape of settlement archaeology and human exploitation. The module will examine how the predominant historic character of various landscapes can be assessed and will also include illustration through field study. This unit aims to introduce the basic concepts of archaeology and the historic landscape, outline the chronology of human settlement and the techniques used to understand the material evidence of the wider landscape. It also aims to identify significant developments which affected specific landscapes. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to demonstrate: knowledge of the theory, methods and practice in the subject of Archaeology. an understanding of how the material evidence for past human activity is interpreted in the wider landscape. knowledge of the significant changes in human settlement through time and how these might have contributed to the development of specific landscapes. 30% Coursework 70% Other assessment No key reading has been identified

7 Introduction to Natural History and Ecology Level: 1 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE1855 An introduction to natural history and ecology, introducing the study of plants, animals and other organisms; their interactions with others, with their environments, and with humans. The module will also investigate ecosystems, the effects of climate, water and soils; factors affecting the distribution and abundance of plants and animals, including competition, life histories and powers of dispersal. In addition, it will consider succession, disturbance and the application of ecological ideas to conservation and environmental management. This unit aims to introduce the basic concepts of Natural History and Ecology through the study of plants, animals and other organisms. It also aims to introduce `ecosystems' and factors affecting the distribution and abundance of plants and animals and the application of ecological ideas to conservation and environmental management. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to demonstrate: an understanding of the basic concepts of Natural History and Ecology knowledge of ecosystems and factors affecting the distribution and abundance of plants and animals. how the application of ecological principles lead to conservation and environmental management. 30% Coursework 60% Portfolio 10% Presentation No key reading has been identified

8 Introduction to Geology and Landform Level: 1 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE1854 This module introduces those basic concepts of geology central to an understanding of the physical landscape of Britain. This includes an introduction to geological processes, from the global to the local, and to geological materials. The influence of geology on the development of landscape will also be explored, as will the processes which give rise to specific landforms. The distribution of rock types, mineral resources, landforms and landscapes throughout Britain will also be included. This unit aims to: introduce the basic concepts of geology and of the processes giving rise to a range of landforms. introduce and explain the relationship between geology and landscape introduce the geographical distribution, and the reasons for this distribution, of rock types, geological resources which have impacted on landscape, and of specific landforms within Britain. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to demonstrate: knowledge of the basic concepts of geology knowledge of a range of landforms found in Britain, and the processes giving rise to these landforms. an understanding of the relationship between underlying geology, the landscapes developed on this geology and the processes involved in shaping the topography. knowledge of the distribution of rock types, geological resources which have impacted on landscape, a range of landforms and physical landscapes within Britain. 30% Essay, approx 1200 words 60% Portfolio 10% Presentation No key reading has been identified

9 Getting Started with Research Level: 1 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE1880 This module provides you with the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills gained from other modules and to engage in a small-scale piece of academic research. The aim is to introduce you to the research process and to encourage the development of self-directed learning skills. Teaching is structured around a number of group tutorials spread across the academic year. Aims This module aims to: provide students with the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills gained from other modules and to engage in a small-scale piece of research; introduce students to the research process and encourage the development of self-directed learning skills; provide students with the opportunity to pursue an academic project of particular personal interest or significance; provide students with confidence in their ability to engage in academic research Learning Outcomes By the end of the module, a student will be able to demonstrate: an understanding of the research process; the ability to identify a research topic and formulate their own title; the ability to conduct a literature search; the ability to engage in a small-scale piece of academic research; the ability to produce a sustained academic argument in relation to their chosen research area. Assessment 1000 word report on literature search (25%), 2500 word project (60%), 500 word reflective commentary (15%) Key Reading Hart, C. (2001) Doing a Literature Search. Sage. O Dochartaigh, N. (2007) Internet Research Skills: how to do your literature search and find research information online. Sage. Ridley, D. (2008) The Literature Review: a step-by-step guide for students. Sage.

10 Integrated Landscapes Level: 2 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE2367 Prerequisite: None All landscapes have evolved through time and include both natural and human heritage components. But what separates a landscape from an area of land? It is said that a landscape is more than the sum of its composite parts and this unit examines how this evolution is both conceptualised and described as a cultural commodity, investigating the causal factors in the diversity of present landscape, habitat and heritage interrelationships. This unit aims to enable students to examine the diversity of different landscapes in terms of their natural and cultural heritage; to be able to analyse the causal factors which together characterise that landscape and identify where the inter-relationship of its components contributes to the holistic concept of landscape. After completing this module students will be able to: examine the diversity of different landscape settings in terms of their natural and cultural heritage; analyse the causal factors contributing to the character of landscapes; identify where the inter-relationship of its components contributes to the holistic concept of landscape. Two projects of 2000 words each No key reading has been identified

11 Public Presentation and Participation Level: 2 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE2477 Prerequisite: None This unit seeks to identify and examine good practice in the promotion of heritage landscapes and to develop skills in communication to interested parties, especially the public. The module also seeks to develop students communication skills by using various forms of presentation, such as, visual (e.g. the production of a heritage trail ) oral and visual (e.g. by presenting a PowerPoint synopsis of the importance of the landscape), or by designing a website. This unit aims to identify and examine, critically, good practice in the promotion of heritage landscapes and to develop communication skills. It also seeks to develop students ability to communicate through both visual and oral means. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to demonstrate: 1. an ability to identify and critically-evaluate good practice in the promotion of heritage landscapes; 2. communication skills in the promotion of conservation landscapes; 3. the ability to communicate using different forms of presentation. The module will be assessed by: 1. A portfolio of approximately 3,600 words equivalence (90%) (all outcomes). The portfolio will include material produced by the students but will also critically examine presentations already in the public domain. A presentation by the students of interpretational publicity for an area of landscape (10%) (outcome 2). No key reading has been identified

12 Landscape Research Project Level: 2 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE2096 This module consists of a supervised individual project. The purpose of this module is to enable students to undertake landscape research based on the ecological, geological and historic features and characteristics that are contained within a given area. This module builds on previous studies at level 1 and the research should be aimed towards vocational and work-based environments. This unit aims to allow students to complete a project, with appropriate supervision, as a piece of independent research in accordance with good scholarly practice. This should be based upon skills and knowledge built up on previous taught and research-based modules. This research should address particular management, interpretation or conservation measures for a specific area of landscape. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to: 1. Demonstrate engagement with the research subject. 2. Complete a research project according to good scholarly practice. The module will be assessed by: A single report on the landform, historic character and ecology of a selected area of landscape (approx words equivalent) (100%).

13 Identification and Recording Practice Level: 2 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE2335 Prerequisite: ACE2076. This module aims to provide the skills, and an understanding of the skills required to identify and record various aspects of the human and natural environment. It will include studies in landscape feature identification and demonstrate recording techniques used in the natural sciences and archaeology. This may include the use of indicator species, survey design and data collection, and the identification and recording of strata, soils and natural human-made features in the landscape. This unit aims to enable students to understand and develop skill necessary to identify natural and human-made landscape features and components and employ selected standard techniques to record the natural formation, biotic and abiotic characteristics and the remains of past human activity in the landscape. At the end of the module, students will: have developed identification and interpretative skills in different aspects of landscape and its formation. understand appropriate techniques for recording the natural and human constituents of the landscape. develop practical skills in using some of the recording techniques. 70% Coursework 30% Exam Aston, M, Interpreting the Landscape, 1985, Routledge, London Barnes, J W, Basic Geological Mapping, 1985, Open University Press, Milton Keynes Southwood, T R E & Henderson, P A, Ecological Methods, 2000, Blackwell, Oxford Townsend, C R, Harper, J L & Begon, N, Essentials of Ecology, 2003, Blackwell, Oxford

14 Evolution and Life on Earth Level: 3 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE3265 Darwin defined evolution as descent with modification. This unit examines the nature of evolutionary ideas, and how they are applied in interpreting both the fossil record and the diversity of life today. Fossil and modern evidence for descent with modification will be discussed, as will the narrative of evolution, including gaps and areas of uncertainty or debate. Mechanics of speciation, biogeography and patterns of ancient and present biodiversity are included as are factors such as ecological constraints and the consequences of plate tectonics and of global catastrophes. Among specific examples, hominid evolution will be outlined and examined in the light of insights from archaeology and anthropology. This unit aims to develop understanding of current evolutionary theories and the evidence on which they are based, and to enable critical evaluation of their use in particular contexts, including their application in studies of the human species. In addition it will provide a context for the understanding of biodiversity, and the application of such knowledge to conservation and environmental science. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to demonstrate: 1. knowledge of current of evolutionary theory, including an understanding of its basic principles and an awareness of current controversies. 2. understanding of the nature and limitations of the evidence on which the theory is based, and an ability to use such evidence in argument. 3. understanding of the broad sequence of events in evolutionary history and their causes. 4. understanding of the nature of biodiversity and of the geographical distribution of living things. 5. ability to use analytical methods to compare and contrast diversity levels across time and on varying geographical scales. One 2000-word essay (50%) (Learning outcomes 1,2,3 and 4) One project of approx 2000 words (50%). (learning outcome 5)

15 Dissertation 1 (NHE) Level: 3 Credit Value: 10 Module Code: ACE3060C This module allows students to propose strategies for the completion of a 10,000 word dissertation, (ACE3061C), demonstrating the ability to produce an extended piece of writing arising from independent research. The student may decide to focus on an area of study within a particular discipline or they may choose to take an inter-disciplinary approach. For this module (Dissertation 1) the student will produce a proposal for the dissertation, including a clear rationale for the project and its viability, and a breakdown of the proposed content of the final dissertation. This unit aims to allow students to: formulate and evaluate the viability of a research proposal for the dissertation allow students to undertake independent research, with appropriate supervision gather appropriate source materials and to work towards and increasingly detailed proposal for the dissertation By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to: articulate, clearly, ideas about the topic(s) of the dissertation and its rationale. demonstrate that they have identified appropriate and sufficient source materials relevant to the work. formulate, in writing, a clear design and structure for the dissertation as a whole. 100% Dissertation proposal Brow, S, McDowell, L. & Race, P, 500 Tips for research students, 1995, Kogan Page, London Dunleavy, P., Studying for a degree in the Humanities and Social Sciences, 1986, Macmillan; Basingstoke. MHRA, MHRA Style Book: Notes for authors, editors, and writers of theses, 1991, MHRA; London

16 Dissertation 2 (NHE) Level: 3 Credit Value: 30 Module Code: ACE3061C Restriction(s): Restricted to students of ACEU80C (NHE) This module allows students to complete a 10,000 word dissertation, demonstrating the ability to produce an extended piece of writing arising from independent research. The student may decide to focus on an area of study within a particular discipline, or they may choose to take an inter-disciplinary approach, within the scope of the Natural and Human Environments programme. For this module (Dissertation 2) the student will present a rigorous in-depth study, drawing on a broad range of appropriate source material and demonstrating critical and analytical sophistication. This unit aims to allow students to complete a dissertation, with appropriate supervision, as a piece of independent research in accordance with good scholarly practice. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to: demonstrate engagement with the research subject. complete a research project according to good scholarly practice. 100% Project Brow, S., McDowell, E., & Race, P., 500 Tips for Research Students, 1995, Kogan Page, London Dunleavy, P., Studying for a Degree in the Humanities and Social Sciences, 1986, Macmillan, Basingstoke MHRA, MHRA Style Book: Notes for authors, editors, and writers of theses, 1991, MHRA, London

17 Theoretical Approaches to the Natural Sciences and Archaeology Level: 3 Credit Value: 20 Module Code: ACE3053 This unit examines the development of theories in environmental, biological and archaeological disciplines in an historical and philosophical context. Where appropriate, case histories of particular controversies will be used to explore controversies and examine the impact that particular theories have had across disciplines. Examples of areas explored will include the history of evolution ideas and the development and influences of whole- Earth theories. Also considered will be the varying philosophical approaches to how human societies developed and interacted in the past. The influence of cultural context on theoretical developments will be explored, together with the extension of ideas beyond their original scope. To enable critical evaluation of the ways in which theories related to the natural and human environment have arisen and developed within various contexts. The students will Understand the various natures of evidence within the natural sciences and the degree to which recorded fact, inferrence and interpretation is employed in the development of theory. Understand how evidence can be interpreted in different ways according to the application of differing philosophical approaches. Understand and be able to develop interpretations based on evidence, for the influence of the cultural milieu on the development of theory. 30% Exam 70% Other assessment Martin, R.E, Bottjer, D.J, & Bambach, R K [eds], One Long Experiment: scale and process in earth history, 1998, Columbia University Press, Columbia & Princeton Moore, J.A, Science as a way of knowing, 1993, Harvard University Press, Cambridge, Mass, USA Pickstone, J.V, Ways of Knowing, 2000, Manchester University Press, Manchester Trigger, B, History of Archaeological Thought, 1987, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge lists"; or via the "How can I find my reading lists?" link onhttp://