Field School Progamms
An archaeological field school is a hands-on educational program that provides students and interested individuals with the opportunity to gain practical experience in archaeological fieldwork. These schools are often organized in collaboration with universities, research institutions, or archaeological projects and typically take place at active excavation sites.
The educational value of an archaeological field school is multifaceted. Firstly, participants receive practical training in archaeological methods, such as excavation techniques, surveying, documentation, and artifact analysis. These practical skills are essential for a career in archaeology and cannot be adequately taught in a traditional classroom setting. Additionally, archaeological field schools integrate various scientific disciplines like anthropology, history, geology, and archaeobotany. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a broad understanding of the subject matter and demonstrates how different scientific approaches can be combined to gain more comprehensive insights.
Another significant aspect is research experience. Participants often work on current research projects, giving them the opportunity to contribute to the scientific community. This experience may also include the chance to participate in publications or to develop and pursue their own research questions. Fieldwork requires effective teamwork and communication within a team, enhancing social skills that are valuable in many professional fields. Archaeological projects frequently encounter unforeseen challenges, teaching participants to think flexibly, devise creative solutions, and critically assess their findings on site.
Moreover, participants develop a deeper understanding and respect for different cultures and their histories, as many archaeological field schools take place in diverse cultural contexts. This promotes intercultural competence and sensitivity. Lastly, attending a field school can expand one's professional network, as participants interact with experienced archaeologists, professors, and fellow students, fostering future career opportunities and collaborations.
Overall, an archaeological field school offers a valuable complement to theoretical education by providing practical and interdisciplinary experiences that are essential for a well-rounded education in archaeology.
A case study/teaching concept was carried out as part of the NearArCH Field School, formerly Aramus Excavations and Field School:
Educational concept on NearArCH Field School Innsbruck