Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - ARCH 376 D100

Quantitative Methods in Archaeology (4)

Class Number: 4411

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

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

  • Instructor:

    Eric Guiry
    eguiry@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-3365
    Office Hours: Check CANVAS

  • Prerequisites:

    ARCH 101 or ARCH 201, and any one of ARCH 285, GEOG 251, PSYC 210, STAT 101, STAT 201, STAT 203, or STAT 205.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Theory, method, and operation of the application of statistical techniques to the description, classification, analysis, and interpretation of archaeological data. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course examines theory, method, and operation of quantitative techniques used in the description, classification, analysis, and interpretation of archaeological data. The course stresses exploratory data analysis and graphical pattern recognition techniques. The main objectives of the course are: to provide the background necessary for informed, critical reading of quantitative archaeological literature; to provide the background needed for designing research projects that will generate data that can be productively analyzed using quantitative methods; and to teach the use of computers in managing and analyzing archaeological data.  Major topics to be covered include:

  1. Measurement and Sampling Theory    
  2. Quantifying Archaeological Objects      
  3. Graphing Data      
  4. Descriptive Statistics      
  5. Statistical Inference                
  6. Students T test
  7. Chi-squared Test
  8. Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test
  9. Diversity analysis
  10. Principal Component Analysis 
The course will require a substantial commitment of time, including extensive use of computers in campus facilities (or at home).

Grading

  • Problem Set 1 25%
  • Problem Set 2 25%
  • Problem Set 3 25%
  • Weekly Quizlets 15%
  • Article Presentation 10%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Drennan, Robert D. 2009. Statistics for Archaeologists: A Common-sense Approach. 2nd edition. Springer, New York.

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.