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Analysis & Visualisation - ARC00008M

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  • Department: Archaeology
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23

Module summary

Analysis and Visualisation examines the theory and methods of digital investigation in archaeology and heritage. The module is taught by academic and industry experts who provide insight into cutting-edge practice in their specific specialties and allows students to debate the merits of these technologies. Students will be challenged to think critically about the use of digital methods and near-future technologies that explore themes grounded in archaeological evidence. 

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23

Module aims

To introduce the main digital technologies used for the analysis and visualisation of archaeological information, awareness of how the technologies have been applied, and their relative pros and cons.

Module learning outcomes

  • Knowledge of the development of GIS and computer 3-D modelling in general, with particular knowledge in relation to archaeology and cultural heritage

  • Knowledge of key GIS, CAD and VR technologies

  • Understanding of relative advantages and disadvantages of different technologies and applications

Module content

Analysis and Visualisation is an expert-led tour through traditional and cutting-edge digital technology as it is used to interpret and disseminate archaeological data. Each week focuses on a different method or approach in digital methods and features reading selected from the best of thinking about these methods. Some seminars feature debates, or presentations that examine specific aspects of these methods, and discussions centre around both practical and more creative considerations in creating digital media. We ask: who is the audience for our digital interpretations? Is this the most effective approach? 

This module will not turn you into an expert into any one of these technologies, but should allow you to critically engage with the theory behind digital archaeology and heritage, effectively assess their use and evaluate your interest in improving your skills in the future, whether it is in one of our dedicated skills modules or on your own.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Module feedback

Feedback will be available within 6 weeks

Indicative reading

Frankland, T. (2012).  A CG artist's impression: Depicting virtual reconstructions using non-photorealistic rendering techniques. In A. Chrysanthi, P.F. Murrieta and C. Papadopoulos (eds) Thinking Beyond the Tool: Archaeological Computing and the Interpretive Process. Oxford: Archaeopress, 24-39.

Jeffrey, S., (2015). Challenging Heritage Visualisation: Beauty, Aura and Democratisation. Open Archaeology, 1(1). Available at: http://www.degruyter.com/view/j/opar.2014.1.issue-1/opar-2015-0008/opar-2015-0008.xml. 

Perry, S. (2014). Crafting knowledge with (digital) visual media in archaeology, in R. Chapman & A. Wylie (eds.) Material Evidence: Learning from Archaeological Practice, London: Routledge, 189-210


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.