Spring 2026 - ARCH 285 D100
Archaeological Science (4)
Class Number: 4434
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Francesco Berna
fberna@sfu.ca
1 778 782-9674
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Prerequisites:
12 units.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Introduces scientific techniques used for archaeological investigations. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.
COURSE DETAILS:
This in-person course is intended to introduce students to the scientific approach and analytical techniques used to study ancient societies and their interactions with past environments. These studies have been transformed in recent years by the application of principles of physics, chemistry, biology, earth and materials sciences and the use of analytical techniques drawn from the natural sciences and engineering. Morphological and genetic studies of human and biological remains and chemical-physical analysis of the material culture provide new insights into past human knowledge, ideology, activities and the environments in which ancient people lived. Lectures will cover introductive concepts on the scientific method (e.g., hypothesis’ generation and testing), principles and applications of commonly used analytical techniques, and several case studies from different archaeological periods and regions.
Grading
- Midterm I 15%
- Midterm II 20%
- Assignments (5) 50%
- Final Exam 15%
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Gilberto Artioli. 2010. Scientific Methods and Cultural Heritage. An Introduction to the Application of Materials Science to Archaeometry and Conservation Science. Oxford University Press.
Print ISBN: 9780199548262, on shelf + accessible online WAC Bennett Library
eText ISBN: 9780191576355, 0191576352 (Rentable from www.vitalsource.com
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:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
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.