Module Specifications.
Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025
All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).
As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Date posted: September 2024
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Description Archaeology is an essential source for the study of Medieval Irish history (c.500-c.1500AD). The results from excavations provide rich evidence for past societies in a period when traditional historical sources are incomplete. In particular, the lives of everyday people can be reconstructed from their material remains. Landscape archaeology, which examines the distribution of ancient sites, elucidates often obscure contemporary references to settlement. The history of the Early Medieval church, for example, is enhanced by examining the monastic ruins that dot the Irish landscape. The aim of this course is to introduce students to basic archaeological techniques and the key discoveries that have contributed to our knowledge of the past: Deer Park Farms ringfort; the Derrynaflan hoard; Viking Dublin, Bective Abbey, Trim Castle, rural medieval settlement, etc. Students will acquire the ability to apply archaeological findings to their own historic research. The course will include field trips to archaeological excavations, field monuments and museum collections. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Identify the nature of ‘primary’ source material, as the term applies to archaeological information. 2. Engage critically with secondary and primary source matter. 3. Comprehend and analyse the underlying philosophy behind archaeological methods and practice. 4. Deploy appropriate research methods and methodologies for analysing published archaeological reports and for creating original projects.. 5. Identify, pursue and complete an original piece of research based on primary data. . 6. Convey the essential of a primary research project in a formal presentation. 7. Engage in self-directed learning by specialising in areas of personal interest. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Indicative ContentThe nature of historical evidence and archaeology as a source for historians Sources for the study of medieval archaeology Excavation techniques, stratigraphy and publication Methods of scientific dating – radio-carbon dating and dendro-chronology Environmental archaeology: archaeozoology and palaeobotany Case studies in Irish medieval archaeological excavations The Archaeological Survey of Ireland and online resources Case studies in Irish Medieval archaeological survey Field trips Student presentations | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||