Landscape Survey and Geophysics - ARC00119M
Module summary
This module will give an overview of how landscape survey and geophysical data can be captured, processed, and understood. It will introduce basic methodology in non-destructive survey techniques, explore methods of measurement and analysis, and how to communicate those results through drawing and publication. The module focuses particularly on analysis and interpretation of data, and deals with data collected from a variety of means, including hand drawn surveys, Lidar, and two of the most commonly used geophysical techniques (gradiometry and resistance).
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2023-24 |
Module aims
This module aims:
- To introduce the various methods of landscape survey and geophysics and familiarise students with the main techniques
- To understand how survey data can be captured and applied, and to consider why these are important to the broader discipline of landscape archaeology
- To comprehend the information potential and limitations of these types of survey
Module learning outcomes
By the end of the module the students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an systematic understanding of survey basics and frameworks to capture their own data
- Demonstrate a practical understanding of how established techniques are used to create and interpret knowledge, specifically geophysical plots, earthwork survey drawings, lidar analysis and geophysical data processing
- Demonstrate self-direction in acquiring mapping data sets from online repositories
- Communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences through the use of a digital drawing package to integrate and present results
Module content
This module is split between two types of survey: the surface, including earthworks and other landscape features; and the sub-surface via geophysics. It is taught via a series of recorded lectures and in-person practical workshops, and comprises an introduction to the main non-destructive survey methods along with a close examination of how to understand and interpret these kinds of data.
Students will carry out exercises in basic Lidar processing using open source tools, and data processing of geophysical data. There is a focus on the use of digital drawing packages for the presentation of results of both landscape and geophysical survey. Finally, the assessment takes the form of a grey literature report, allowing you to present your results in a professional context.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Module feedback
Formative: oral feedback from module leaders
Summative: written feedback within the University's turnaround policy
Indicative reading
Gaffney, C. and J. Gater (2003) Revealing the Buried Past: Geophysics for Archaeologists. Tempus.
Historic England (2017) Understanding the Archaeology of Landscapes. A Guide to Good Recording Practice.