Journeyman Research in Archaeology

Now that you have finished up the Journeyman Core Lessons in Field Archaeology, it's time to spread your wings a little bit with a series of exploratory exercises designed for you to explore a sub-discipline in Archaeology by investigating it in great detail. The bulk of the research you complete here will be used to support your final research paper at the Master Level, so be methodical when you're researching. Also, have fun. These lessons are driven by your personal interests. Take advantage of that and go as far as the road will take you in discovering all that you can about your area of Archaeology.

We're going to kick these lessons off with the way many great adventures begin, by choosing your own way. The Apprentice Core Lessons in Archaeology gave you a general introduction to all the various sub-disciplines in archaeological research. What interests you? Are you attracted to the archaeology of a particular country, civilization, or time period? How about a particular method? Consider these and when your ready, it's time to choose your focus.


After you have decided what you want to explore further, answer the following questions in your journal:

- What did you choose to explore?
- Why did you choose this area to explore?
- What are some highlights of this sub-discipline that you already know?
- What do you want to explore further?

So begins your journey. Good luck!

With sub-discipline picked, spend some time researching your topic. Ideally, you spend at least 6 months with it. Post an update in your journal weekly highlighting areas that you have explored and things that you have learned. At the end of your period of research, you'll develop a thesis for your Master Research Paper and Presentation that you will present to your mentor.

Areas to focus on in your research:

- Past archaeological discoveries in your sub-discipline.
- Current research sites and trends in your sub-discipline.
- Methods employed in current archaeological research.
- Overview of established history gathered from archaeological research. How is your area understood now because of archaeology?
- Artifacts or ecofacts related to what you are researching.
- Cultural implications of sites associated with your sub-discipline.
- Major discoveries associated with your area of archaeology.

If you have any questions, make contact with your mentor.

Complete the following essays related to your research. Essays should be 500 to 1000 words minimum. Don't forget to cite your sources.


1) Describe the history of your archaeological sub-discipline. What are some highlights? How has it changed over time?

2) What is currently being researched in your sub-discipline of archaeology? Where are the current sites located, and what is some of the information gathered from them? What are some prevailing theories surrounding this area of archaeology?

3) Explain the current methods of archaeological research that are being implemented in your field. How have these increased the knowledge available for research.

4) Describe the current understanding of your area of archaeology. Explain any differences from previously understood history that have taken place as a result of archaeological research.

5) Describe any major artifacts or ecofacts recovered in your sub-discipline. Why are these important?

6) What are the cultural implications associated with site work in your sub-discipline. What have we learned about the culture of associated peoples as a result of this work?

7) Explain any major discoveries associated with your sub-discipline. What are the most important things we have learned in your area of archaeology?

Reflect back on what you have learned throughout the journeyman lessons. What are some of the most important takeaways you have? How have these lessons helped you grow as a person? How do you think you'll be able to take what you've learned here and apply it to our service aspect in the Order? Make an entry in your journal.

You have come to the end of your Journeyman Research Phase. Congratulations! It is now time to share your thesis for your Master Research Paper with your mentor and gather any additional resources for your project before moving on. Moving on to the Master Level is at the discretion of your mentor. If your mentor feels that more research is needed, they may assign additional assignments for you to complete. Also, you may continue on to finish an optional medieval focus in archaeology. Touch base with your mentor and let him or her know your intentions. Good luck in your continued progress within the Guild.