Archaeological Research Design Steps

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Questions and Answers

What is the initial stage in archaeological research design?

  • Implementation of research
  • Data collection
  • Evaluation of background information
  • Formulation of problems and hypotheses (correct)

What is one key factor that affects the precision of a sample in archaeological research?

  • The source of the data
  • The theoretical approach used
  • The size of the sample (correct)
  • The number of researchers involved

Which strategy can be employed for sampling in archaeological research?

  • Random or systematic sampling
  • Arbitrary or nonarbitrary sampling (correct)
  • Descriptive or analytical sampling
  • Quantitative or qualitative sampling

In the planning stage of archaeological research, which element is typically arranged?

<p>Funding and permits (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a result of conducting survey work in the field during archaeological research?

<p>Identification of sites and locations (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does increased size in a sampling strategy generally lead to?

<p>Increased precision (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What influences the expectations about appropriate data for testing hypotheses?

<p>Theoretical approach used (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus when choosing sampling methods in archaeological research?

<p>Specifically targeting certain areas (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of non-arbitrary sampling?

<p>Recognition of cultural or environmental evidence (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes simple random sampling?

<p>Assigning equal probability of selection to each unit of the frame (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key error resulting from inadequate sampling of cultural items?

<p>Samples being too small to evaluate variability (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is total sampling most likely to occur?

<p>When cultural materials are threatened by construction activities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary goal of the analysis stage in archaeological research?

<p>To conduct detailed studies and formulate conclusions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the interpretation stage in archaeological research?

<p>To explain findings within the context of the initial research problem (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant characteristic of stratified sampling?

<p>It divides the site into classes treated as independent sampling universes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Archaeological Research Design

A series of steps used by archaeologists to plan, implement, and publish research on past human activity. It involves finding, recording, and analyzing remains.

Formulation Stage

The initial phase of archaeological research, where problems and hypotheses are defined, background information is gathered, and feasibility is assessed.

Implementation Stage

The stage where the research plan is put into action. Resources (funding, permits, people, equipment) are arranged, and work begins.

Data Collection Stage

The stage where archaeological remains are found, recorded, and analyzed. Survey work identifies sites, and excavation decisions are made.

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Sampling Strategies

Methods used to select a portion of a site to study rather than the whole site. This saves time and resources.

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Sample Size

The number of units or locations included in a sample. Larger samples increase the precision of the findings.

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Population Variability

The differences between the units or locations being studied.

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Arbitrary/Non-arbitrary Sampling

Different types of sampling methods in archaeology that give varying levels of control and precision over the study area.

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Non-arbitrary Sampling

A sampling method where researchers deliberately choose areas for excavation based on evidence of cultural activity or natural features like topography.

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Arbitrary Sampling

A sampling method where areas for excavation are chosen randomly, without considering cultural significance or natural features.

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Simple Random Sampling

A sampling method where each area within the site has an equal chance of being selected for excavation.

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Stratified Sampling

A sampling method where a site is divided into sections based on characteristics (like topography or cultural activity) and then samples are taken from each section.

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Sampling Error

The difference between the sample results and the true characteristics of the entire site.

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Total Sampling

Excavating the entire site or a complete feature, usually done when cultural material is at risk of being destroyed.

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Analysis Stage

The stage where the material recovered from a site is studied in detail. It's usually done in a lab, involving detailed descriptions, measurements, and comparisons.

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Study Notes

Archaeological Research Design Steps

  • Archaeological research follows a structured sequence, similar to other scientific disciplines, to investigate past human activities. This involves planning, implementation, and publication.
  • The process begins with problem and hypothesis definition, gathering background information, and feasibility assessment. This is influenced by prior research and the chosen theoretical approach.
  • The next stage involves practical implementation: securing funding, permits, personnel, and equipment required to conduct the fieldwork.
  • Data collection happens in the field (e.g., surveying and excavating). Archaeologists often conduct targeted site sampling, leaving parts unexamined.
  • Sampling strategies are significant for archaeological research focus and depend on sample size and the variability of the study population. Strategies include arbitrary and non-arbitrary sampling methods. Examples involve simple random sampling (equal probability of selection) and stratified sampling (dividing the site into categories).
  • Errors during sampling result from incomplete or unrepresentative site coverage, incorrect site partitioning, and insufficient sample size for variability evaluation.
  • Sampling limitations often stem from financial, personnel or time constraints, leading to total sampling in certain situations (e.g., when cultural materials are threatened by construction).
  • The excavated materials are then processed, documented, and preserved. This includes recording locations, describing, photographing, and drawing the findings.
  • Material analysis, typically laboratory-based, follows excavation and involves detailed study of the artifacts, and their temporal and spatial context. Analysis helps define cultural aspects from findings.
  • Finally, interpretation and data dissemination happen in line with initial research. The archaeologist presents the findings in the framework of the theoretical approach, often leading to publication and reporting to respective funding sources.

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