Duration
30h Th, 8d FT Tr. Pr.
Number of credits
Lecturer
Language(s) of instruction
French language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the second semester
Schedule
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Learning unit contents
A rigorous study of the sedimentary context in which the archaeological material is unearthed provides critical information to the archaeologist for a good understanding of the site and for an optimal interpretation of the material.
A detailed stratigraphic study is a first, necessary stage. It allows to control the succession of the different layers in the studied site, as well as the lateral changes in geometry and facies. It therefore ensures the accurate positioning of the archaeological information and of the different samples related to environmental studies (fauna, flora, sedimentology, etc.). It can also establish strong correlations between the different areas of the excavation.
A solid knowledge of the nature of the sediments and of their depositional dynamics is also very informative, and is inseparable from stratigraphy. It allows for instance to determine if the unearthed objects are in situ or reworked. Besides, together with other disciplines, it also contributes to the reconstruction of the natural environment of the human occupation including, in the case of Palaeolithic sites, the climatic environment.
During this course, basic rules for stratigraphy will be presented, as well as the different sedimentary environments likely to be found on an archaeological site (alluvial plain, aeolian, slope, cave...). The involved depositional and post-depositional processes will be described. Special attention will be given to information directly accessible from field observations (nature of the sediment, sedimentary structures, concretions, pedogenesis...). The main laboratory analyses that complete the field observations will also be reviewed. Behind a theoretical part, the course will also include a practical training.
Learning outcomes of the learning unit
To master the basic knowledge on nature and genesis of the deposits yielding the archaeological remains in order to better interpret 1) the context of the unearthed objects as well as 2) the potential disturbances that affected these objects since the abandonment of the site by man
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
Basic knowledge in geology (course of geology for the 1 bac in geology or for biologists).
Planned learning activities and teaching methods
Practical works in natural geological sites and (when possible) in archaeological excavations. Observation and interpretation of different kinds of sedimentary deposits and post-depositional processes.
Mode of delivery (face-to-face ; distance-learning)
Dates for the course and practical works have to be set in agreement with the students.
Recommended or required readings
Course notes will be provided during the first course.
Assessment methods and criteria
Modalities of exam have to be set;
Work placement(s)
Organizational remarks
In order to establish as fast as possible the course schedule, please contact me as soon as possible with your availabilities.
Contacts
Dr. Stéphane PIRSON
stephane.pirson@spw.wallonie.be
Adaptation of teaching commitments following the COVID-19 pandemic for the May-June 2020 session
Teaching methods implemented : distance-learning
E-learning (videoconference) has been organised during the confinement related to covid-19. The power point was presented normally, with interractions with the students (questions-answers).
If the confinement is prolonged, the initially planned field-trip will be cancelled.
Assessment subjects
The course notes (PDF) have been given to the students during the first course. The evaluation will be concerned with the contents of these course notes. At the end of the course, the detail of the chapters that will be more specifically concerned by the evaluation will be communicated to the students by e-mail.
Assessment methods
Videoconference (same as for the course)
Contacts
stephane.pirson@spw.wallonie.be
or
spirson@uliege.be.
In case of emergency : 0477/58.08.73
Adaptation of teaching commitments following the COVID-19 pandemic for the Aug-Sept 2020 session
Assessment subjects
The course notes (PDF) have been given to the students during the first course. The evaluation will be concerned with the contents of these course notes. The detail of the chapters that will be more specifically concerned by the evaluation have been communicated to the students by e-mail.
Assessment methods
Videoconference (same as for the course), unlless ULiège allows face-to-face exams
Contacts
stephane.pirson@spw.wallonie.be
or
spirson@uliege.be.
In case of emergency : 0477/58.08.73