Learn Online: Introduction to Australian Archaeology Part 1

In this introductory course Part 1, we consider what archaeology is, and how it fits into the scheme of anthropology.
Learn something of early Australian anthropologists and how archaeology developed in Australia. Consider the formative processes of the earth, and look at how plate tectonics effected biogeography. You will gain knowledge about various theories of Hominid dispersal, like Out of Africa and Multi-regionalism. Discover facts about the Ice Age and fluctuating Pleistocene sea levels. Find out when and how Australia was first colonized, was it 40,000 or 60,000 years ago? Archaeology is a multidisciplinary science, and this course exposes you to archaeology papers, with the benefit of discussion through the forum or interaction with the instructor.
This course is designed for anyone interested in Australian archaeology, or archaeology in general.

No previous knowledge of archaeology is required, interest and enthusiasm is required. Participating and thoughtful completion of tests/quizzes and assignments is the key to success in this course.

The course runs continuously, allowing you to begin at anytime, and is designed so that it can be studied online. The course should be completed within 60 days, that is, one lesson every 12 days, so you can work at your own pace.

Students taking this course will understand some fundamental archaeological concepts, terminology, and current theory. The course provides a stepping-stone to further study, developing and broadening their knowledge base.

1. Develop a deeper understanding of archaeological practice
2. Define archaeology, and other sub-fields of anthropology
3. Contrast the practice of archaeology with anthropology
4. Know the names and fields of three early Australian anthropologists
5. Know the names and study fields of three contemporary Australian archaeologists
6. Name Periods and Eras from the Geological Time Scale
7. Differentiate between Periods and Eras
8. Understand the mechanics of plate tectonics
9. Understand the evolutionary relationship between plate tectonics and biogeography
10. Provide dates for the Last Glacial Maximum
11. Discuss the relationship between LGM and fluctuating Pleistocene sea levels
12. Identify methods of paleoclimate proxy dating
13. Name three species of Homo
14. Summarise two main theories of Hominid dispersal
15. Recognise the Pleistocene boundaries of Sahul and Sundaland
16. Compare and contrast theories of Australian colonisation
17. Identify sites over 30,000 years in Greater Australia
18. Cite the reasons for debate surrounding sites over 40,000 years
19. Understand the basics of stone artefact style and production
20. Name four sources of raw materials for lithic artefacts
21. Discuss the mechanics of stone production
22. Identify the bulb of percussion and striking platform on a stone artefact
23. Distinguish a flake from a core
24. Differentiate between ventral, dorsal and cortex surfaces on flakes

There are no prescribed textbooks for this course.
All readings are contained in lessons, uploaded documents and associated net links.

This course is designed so that it can be studied wholly online, using resources provided. Coursework consists of: 5 lessons 5 quizzes related to each lesson 50% 5 short questions (assignments) 25% *One 1,500 word assignment 20% Class polls, participation 5% 85 100 High Distinction 75 84 Distinction 65 74 Credit 50 64 Pass
50 or less Fail

*Please read Notes on main Assignment in Announcements for further instructions

1. A Certificate of Participation
Awarded to students completing all coursework, and posting three thought provoking forum postings.

2. A Certificate of Merit
Awarded to students completing all coursework, posting three thought provoking forum postings, and displaying a keen interest in the course.

3. A Certificate of Outstanding Achievement
Awarded to students who achieve grades of 85% and above, completion of all coursework, five thought provoking forum postings and display a keen interest in the course.

1. Introduction to Australian Archaeology
What is archaeology? Early Australian anthropology, and profiles on three contemporary Australian archaeologists.

2. Plate Tectonics and Australian Biogeography
Introducing an aspect of palaeontology; tectonics and biogeography, setting the background for Australia's colonisation.

3. Ice Ages, Sea Levels and Hominid Dispersal
Pleistocene Ice Age (LGM) and sea levels, radiation theory and patterns of early Homo species.

4. Theory of Australian Colonization
How did the first people arrive in Australia? Was it 40,000 years ago or 60,000 years? Models of initial colonization.

5. Stone Artefact Procurement and Manufacture
Pleistocene and Holocene stone artefacts; technology, style, raw materials, manufacturing techniques.