Fieldwork
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One of the distinguishing features of archaeology as a discipline is that new information is continually coming to light, often meaning that established ideas about the past have to be reconsidered and re-evaluated. Much of this information is derived from the huge numbers of fieldwork projects that are continuously underway throughout the world. Taking part in fieldwork is an exciting and rewarding experience in itself, and the field experience is a strong element in promoting archaeology’s spirit of collective investigation and shared research.
Most degree courses in UK universities include fieldwork as an integral part of the programme, and most departments have their own projects in which students can take part. Some of these are explicitly intended as training excavations or field schools. Taking part in excavation and survey projects is the surest way of learning the skills of the discipline, many of which are hard to teach in the classroom. But beyond this the field experience is invaluable as a way of learning to work in a group. Furthermore, in provides an insight into the character of archaeological evidence, and the ways in which it is collected and recorded, which deepens the appreciation of archaeology in the classroom.
However, you can also make your own arrangements to take part in excavation and fieldwork projects both in the UK and further afield. Many prospective students find it helpful to have some experience of fieldwork before they arrive at university, and spending some time of a project can provide a fruitful element in a gap year.
You can find information on taking part in field projects here:
The Council for British Archaeology has a web-page devoted to fieldwork opportunities in the UK at: http://www.britarch.ac.uk/briefing/field.asp
A guide to fieldwork opportunities outside the UK is provided by the Archaeology Abroad service at: http://www.britarch.ac.uk/archabroad/