The Importance of Experience to an Archaeology Degree
Experience is invaluable to an Archaeology graduate.
If you talk to any archaeologist, they will tell you that experience is the most important factor in finding a job. Universities try to put their graduates into jobs but without that experience most graduates will find it difficult. Not only that, but experienced lecturers are vitally important as well.
Archaeology is a practical science in many ways. You would not expect a mechanic never to have touched an engine or a scientist never to have been in a laboratory. There is a theoretical side to archaeology but that is based on the physical evidence uncovered in the field.
It takes skill to recognise differences in the landscape that may indicate ancient activity. Once a potential site has been found, using equipment and interpreting results to narrow down the exact location requires experience. Even the most basic requirements of archaeology (digging) takes practise. An archaeologist must recognise artefacts within the soil, understand the correct techniques of removing the top layer of soil, trowelling back without gouging into the surface and recognise changes in soil colour and texture. There are often many subtleties within the soil which require the practical understanding so that an archaeologist can say “this is a ditch from the Bronze age but in the Iron Age there were a lot of pits dug into it at this level”. If the pits weren’t recognised because of inexperience it could change the interpretation of the site.
Furthermore, every archaeology site is unique. Unknown factors will arise, such as logistical and practical problems or even brand new civilisations. It is only through being on different sites and learning how to overcome problems that students gain the knowledge and the confidence to be flexible on site.
Students also experience the challenges of working in a team, working regular hours, working for deadlines and in all weather conditions. These skills are invaluable for almost any workplace and show determination, organisation and ability to collaborate.
This short article has hopefully shown how important it is to gain experience during a degree and I hope it encourages more universities to include it in their programmes.
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