Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - ARCH 200 D100

Special Topics in Archaeology (3)

Digital Archaeology

Class Number: 4481

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Cara Tremain
    ctremain@sfu.ca
    Office Hours: Mondays 2-3pm, or by appointment

  • Prerequisites:

    30 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to select topics in archaeology. Variable units: 3, 4. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

Archaeology may be about the past, but the kinds of digital technologies being used across the discipline are anything but old fashioned. 3D printing, computer games, and even Artifical Intelligence are all part of the toolkit of modern archaeologists. This course is an introduction and overview to a range of digital methods and techniques used in archaeology, and will give students an opportunity to explore practical and theoretical approaches to exploring the past in exciting ways. As well as hands-on engagement with digital technology, we will also discuss ethical implications as they relate to concerns of ownership and access.

Grading

  • Midterm 30%
  • Final Exam 35%
  • In-class contributions 15%
  • Group Project 20%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Weekly required readings will be provided via Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

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.