ANTH 1561 - INTRODUCTION TO ARCHAEOLOGICAL GEOPHYSICS

Minimum Credits: 3
Maximum Credits: 3
This course introduces students to current methods of geophysical prospection being used within anthropological archaeology today. Classroom lectures and field surveys on and off campus will provide students a unique hands-on approach to understanding and using geophysical instrumentation. Students will cover a wide range of theory and method in archaeology and geosciences connected to non-invasive remote sensing over archaeological sites. In addition to course lectures on the specific methods and interpretations of archaeological geophysics data, students will learn the basic principles of electrical resistance, electromagnetism, electrical conductivity, and radar wave energy related to the instruments used in field research. Classroom lectures and field surveys on and off campus will provide students a unique hands-on approach to understanding and using geophysical instrumentation and will include: (I) integration of geophysics as a tool within broader archaeological research programs, (II) background theory on the methods and their use in field research (fluxgate gradiometry, earth resistance, ground penetrating radar, magnetic susceptibility, electrical conductivity), and (III) opportunity to process and interpret the geophysics datasets they collect themselves at a local archaeological/historical site in the Pittsburgh region. Students also will have the opportunity over the term to develop a practice grant proposal in which they develop a set of research questions and related field methods for a chosen archaeological site.
Academic Career: Undergraduate
Course Component: Seminar
Grade Component: LG/SNC Elective Basis

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