Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

This class has required synchronous Zoom classes. We meet Wednesdays 11:00 AM - 12:50 PM 

This course introduces archaeology and human prehistory as the anthropological study of humans through the examination of the material culture left behind. We consider frameworks of study, practical methods and ethical issues related to cultural resource management and excavation. In examining evidence for the arc of human prehistory, we consider evidence for the origins of institutions and social hierarchy in ancient societies. We reflect on how early societies compare to contemporary societies. Prerequisites: WR 115, RD 115 and MTH 20 or equivalent placement test scores. Audit available.

You will learn about the field of archaeology and the arc of human prehistory using scientific inquiry to understand the past through the examination of cultural materials. You will first trace the evolution of human behavior from lower Paleolithic beginnings, some two to three million years ago, through to the development of written histories or European contact. You will learn methods used by archaeologists to locate, map, and excavate sites, conduct laboratory analysis, date archaeological materials, and interpret the past using archaeological theory. The class emphasizes the influence of environment and social complexity on status, economy, gender, identity, and ritual behavior. 

The class includes live lectures, videos, discussion participation, essays and exams. Content in D2L refers to course materials like lectures and is found on the navigation bar. In this class, the course content is arranged chronologically and regionally. Each module covers a new archaeological time period or geographical region. You should complete all assignments listed in that week's module introduction. Assignments are listed on the homepage Calendar bar the week they are due. Assignments are found in D2L on the Assignment, Discussions, and Quizzes Tabs on the navigation bar. 

- You need to login to the PCC library to access the textbooks.

- A microphone and webcam are needed for zoom.

- Assignments should be submitted in a PC compatible format like PDF, .doc, .docx, or .rtf. PCC Student have free access to Microsoft Office.