M.4
Archaeological Theory and Research Preparation
Introduction to Archaeological Research
Discussion of the transition from theory to developing research questions.
Emphasis on the necessity of preparation for archaeological research.
Transitioning from Theory to Research Questions
Operationalizing Problems: The process of transforming theoretical concepts into specific, measurable research problems.
Key Aspects of the Research Process
Overview of the research process as discussed in other anthropology classes, serving as a refresher.
Background preparation necessary for fieldwork highlighted.
The iterative nature of developing research questions; revisiting scholarly literature and case studies.
Importance of Theory in Research
Theory affects all aspects of the research process.
It informs the questions asked and the methods of answering those questions.
Determines relevant data for the research project.
Assessing scale and nature of the problem is crucial:
Phenomenological Scale: Scale at which social phenomena occur—domestic level vs. regional level.
Example: Domestic practices in ancient Mexico vs. community changes due to war or famine.
Types of Research Problems
Archaeological research must address specific questions rather than being exploratory.
Typical research questions may revise historical narratives, such as:
Investigating the adoption of maize agriculture by hunting-gathering societies.
Assessing existing archaeological work, including museum collections and prior studies.
Addressing professional practices in archaeology, including the use of technologies like LiDAR and issues like harassment.
Determining Methods Based on Problems
The nature of the research problem influences the methodologies employed.
Funding Sources:
Private companies and government often finance American archaeology, shaping research directions.
Examples of queries: What does an impending bulldozing site consist of?
Scientific Method: Typical components include:
Observation
Hypothesis creation
Expectation development
Testing hypotheses against findings.
Steps of the Research Process
Research Question: The primary focus drives the research.
Project Design: Second step; design is based on the formulated question.
Data Collection: Methods may include fieldwork, archival research, or collections analysis.
Data Analysis: Various analytical methods applicable based on data type (e.g., pottery types, isotopic analysis).
Interpretation & Publication: Stories derived from findings must be shared for peer evaluation through publishing.
Preservation of Materials: Curation and archiving practices for both artifacts and research records are required.
Detailed Look at Research Questions
Divided into three main elements:
Big Problem: Broad issues pertaining to human past—such as the formation of complex societies.
Context-Specific Questions: Based on local research contexts; e.g., hypothesizing structures of early states in the Lower Rio Verde Valley of Oaxaca.
Specific Objectives: Determining necessary research objectives to address these questions, ensuring they are unique and previously unexplored.
\n- Example of objectives might include:
Investigating public spaces at political centers vs. smaller sites.
Assessing ruler identity in public versus domestic settings.
Evaluating regional participation in political events.
Examining autonomy of smaller site inhabitants.
Importance of Background Research
Understanding previous research is vital for developing new archaeological inquiries.
Differentiation between Processual vs. Post Processual archaeology:
Processual Approach: Builds upon existing results, revising knowledge as needed.
Post Processual Approach: Incorporates new data which may redefine interpretations.
Steps for background research involve determining prior work conducted within the region, identifying excavated sites, and understanding conclusions drawn.
Methods for Conducting Background Research
Use of libraries and digital databases for literature review.
Engaging with historical contexts and individuals associated with prior research.
Exploration of government archives; identifying research funding bodies and their contributions in historical contexts.
Importance of thoroughness: A full background study should ensure no redundancy in research objectives.
Transition to Objective Solidification
Post background study, objectives can be finalized, ensuring none duplicate prior research.
Objective achievement methods can vary and are sometimes influenced by available funding.
Preparatory Phase for Field Research
The preparation phase is extensive, sometimes taking years, especially for academic projects.
Cultural resource management projects have shorter turnaround times but require rigorous preparation nonetheless.
Preparing adequately reduces the risk of damage to archaeological sites during research.
Conclusion of Lecture and Next Steps
Overview of upcoming in-class activities centered around the data collection method of mapping.
Students advised to review preparatory sections and assignments prior to class meeting.