Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - ARCH 332 D100

Special Topics in Archaeology I (3)

Ethics & Analysis of Unprovenanced Collections

Class Number: 5393

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    30 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Will be offered from time to time to meet special needs of students and to make use of specializations of visiting faculty members. This course can be used to fulfil upper division group requirements dependent on topic.

COURSE DETAILS:

This class is focused on a collection of unprovenanced materials, donated to the Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology in 2025. Students will be responsible for researching the artifacts, engaging in public scholarship, and designing an exhibit centered on the collection. Throughout the course students will be expected to contribute to discussions about ethical responsibilities of working with unprovenanced collections, and engage in hands-on activities that replicate museum best practices and standards. Students will also be involved in conducting scientific analyses, and contributing to the knowledge production around the 13 artifacts under study. The class represents a unique opportunity to engage with the process of museum provenance research, from acquisition to exhibition.

Please note that the class will be doing a field trip to Burnaby Village Museum on September 29th. You may need to make arrangements to travel to/from the museum, in light of other class or work responsibilities.

Grading

  • Research Plan 5%
  • Public Scholarship 10%
  • Participation 10%
  • Participation 20%
  • Critique 15%
  • Critique 10%
  • Digital Museum Exhibit 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Weekly required readings will be provided via Canvas.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) 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:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.