Digital documentation methods of cultural heritage

general courses

Blended learning

The subject of the course are advanced documentation methods belonging to a relatively new specialization which is now widely developed and popular 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 the data collection process.

The aim of the course is to familiarise students with the methods, instruments and issues of digital archaeology. 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 during the course. Based on examples the wide range of possibilities for their application, as well as their limitations depending on various factors, will be discussed. This will be supplemented by a description of the author's own experience and a number of practical comments and tips. The scope of the course will also include issues concerning digital methods and forms of presentation for publication of scientific research results.

The format of the conservatory will allow for the exchange of current comments and questions on how to appropriately apply the above methodology, as well as to provide students with the opportunity to independently apply the acquired knowledge and skills with the help of instruments provided by the lecturer 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.

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 specialization of digital archaeology. Understands methodological assumptions of advanced documentation and knows the main advantages and disadvantages of using a given method. He is able to select the appropriate digital tools and instruments to increase the amount of information obtained during the 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 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 interpretation of archaeological and historical sources and is aware of the multifaceted nature of the interpretation of issues related to Roman fortifications;

- use his knowledge of the complex nature of culture and are aware of the need to analyse different categories of sources for reconstructing the human past.

A grade based on a final oral examination (100% contribution to the final grade).