Digitizing the past. Advanced methods for documenting the cultural heritage

general courses

Remote learning

The subject of the course is advanced documentation methods belonging to a relatively new and currently widely developed and popular specialisation among many researchers - digital archaeology. Digital archaeology generally involves the implementation of modern technologies and tools in field and laboratory research to increase the accuracy and quantity of information while speeding up data collection.

The classes are devoted to introduce students to the methods, instruments and issues of a broad specialisation of the field of archaeology - digital archaeology. They are an extended version of previous classes, enriched with new experiences of the lecturers.

Modern tools (e.g. laser theodolite, GPS RTK, VR goggles, etc.) and documentation methods (photogrammetry, 3d visualisation, GIS, RTI, etc.) used in archaeological and conservation work will be presented and discussed. Also, new trends in the methodology and new branches of archaeology will be discussed (application of WEBGIS and so-called Archaeogaming). Based on examples, the broad possibilities of their application will be discussed, as well as the limitations depending on varying factors. This will be supplemented by a description of the author's own experiences and a number of practical comments and tips. The scope of the course will also include issues concerning digital methods and forms of presentation and publication of scientific research results.

The format of the seminar will allow for the exchange of current comments and questions on how to appropriately apply the above methodology, as well as providing students with the opportunity to independently apply the acquired knowledge and skills to conduct advanced digital documentation of real objects.

Marsh, Z. 2020. Digital Archaeology: Current Techniques and Applications

Hemker, C., Lobinger, C. Unger, J. et al. 2020. Virtual archaeology. Making the invisible visible. Recommendations and strategies in the application of 3D digitisation and visualisation of archaeological heritage.

Graham, S., Gupta, N., Smith, J. et al. 2020. The Open Digital Archaeology Textbook.

Walcek Averett, E. 2016. Mobilizing the Past for a Digital Future: The Potential of Digital Archaeology.

Daly, P., Evans, T.L. 2006. Digital Archaeology: Bridging Method and Theory, Oxon.

Madry, S. 2021, Introduction to QGIS: Open Source Geographic Information

Knowledge and skills:

Upon completion of the course, the student is able to define and explain the basic terms and concepts of advanced documentation methods and the specialisation of digital archaeology. He/she understands the methodological principles of advanced documentation and the main advantages and disadvantages of using a given method. He/she is able to select appropriate digital tools and instruments to increase the amount of information acquired during research while maintaining a high degree of accuracy. He also has the knowledge and skills to facilitate the presentation of the results of the documentation work.

Social competences:

Is ready to:

- use the knowledge and skills he/she possesses and is aware of the need to confront it with the opinions of experts;

- evaluate the unique value of archaeological sources and their role in reconstructing the human past;

- critically evaluate the digital methods used for the documentation of the wider cultural heritage.

- use their knowledge to carry out digital documentation of historical monuments and other objects.

Grade on the basis of a final oral examination (100% contribution to the final grade).