Prospectus

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Quantitative Methods in Archaeology

Course
2023-2024

Admission requirements

Admission to the MSc Archaeology programme Archaeological Science.

Description

In the course, we learn how to use introductory-level statistical tools and methodologies in the solution of archaeological questions. The course also offers an introduction to Python scripting.

Lectures focus on theory. We discuss key topics, such as data visualisation, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. To practice theory, we use basic coding skills. In lab sessions, we get familiar with Python principles.
In addition, the lab material includes the use of useful packages, such as Numpy and Seaborn.
We aim for open-science practices throughout the course.

Course set-up

  • Presentation of course material in a lecture setting;

  • Archaeological data analysis in lab sessions.

Course objectives

  • Acquiring basic statistical skills;

  • Building critical thinking about the use of quantitative methods in archaeological research;

  • Gaining abilities to read published reports, articles, and manuscripts;

  • Developing basic Python coding skills and performing archaeological computation;

  • Practicing collaborative learning and exploring the benefits of being intellectually dependable.

Timetable

Course schedule details can be found in MyTimetable.
Log in with your ULCN account, and add this course using the 'Add timetable' button.

Mode of instruction

  • Lectures;

  • Laboratory work.

Assessment method

  • Final project (40%);

  • Assignments (40%);

  • Peer reviews (20%).

There will be one final grade. Passing the average grade is sufficient.

Assessment deadlines

All assessment deadlines (exams, retakes, paper deadlines etc.) can be found in MyTimetable.
Log in with your ULCN account, and add this course using the 'Add timetable' button. To view the assessment deadline(s), make sure to select the course with a code ending in T and/or R.

Lab assignments are due throughout the block. Peer reviews follow. The final project is due in the reading/8th week.

Reading list

Not applicable.

Registration

For lectures, tutorials, and exams, enrolment through MyStudymap is mandatory.
You are also required to confirm your exam in MyStudymap. No confirmation = no participation!

General information about registration can be found on the Course and Exam Enrolment page.

Exchange and Study Abroad students, please see the Prospective students website for information on how to apply.

All information (costs, registration, entry requirements, etc.) for those who are interested in taking this course as a Contractstudent is on the Contractonderwijs Archeologie webpage (in Dutch).

Contact

For more information about this course, please contact dr. T. (Tuna) Kalayci.

Remarks

Attendance is not compulsory but recommended. Labs are essential for gaining necessary quantitative skills. Attendance is especially advised if you want to enrol in the elective course Data Analysis with Python.