Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2015 - ARCH 332 E100

Special Topics in Archaeology I (3)

Class Number: 7429

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 13, 2015: Wed, 5:30–8:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    To be announced.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

This course will be offered from time to time to meet special needs of students and to make use of specializations of visiting faculty members.

COURSE DETAILS:

First Nations cultures in North America employed mnemonic devices to remember their history, but did not produce written records to document their stories. Historical archaeology offers a novel approach to understanding their past because textual documents are optional sources for insights. Students will learn about the deficiencies and biases of the historical record. They will explore methods for examining the conceptual framework for eliciting history from unwritten sources. They will become familiar with the role of archaeology in examining narratives about First Nations and their place in broader narratives that form the national mythos of Canada. Topics to be covered include First Nations' use of archaeological methods and theory to reveal their own history and how they must triangulate different lines of evidence to foster their historical imagination. Students will examine the direct historical approach and impact of narratives on archaeological research.

Grading

  • Reading Reviews (5 x 10%) 50%
  • Midterm Exam 20%
  • Oral Report 10%
  • Research Report 20%

NOTES:

Special Topics: First Nations Historical Archaeology

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

No required text. A list of readings will be provided.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need classroom or exam accommodations are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Students with Disabilities (1250 Maggie Benston Centre) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.

Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability.


Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS