Intro to Digital Archaeology and Virtual Reality

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Archaeological methodology has undergone a revolutionary transformation over the past decade. Traditional techniques for recording and interpreting archaeological data are increasingly supplanted by digital and computational methods, which have become integral to both archaeological projects and cultural heritage management (CHM). This course explores the latest state-of-the-art advancements in 3D modeling and photogrammetry, GIS-based spatial archaeological analysis, database management, digital archaeological illustration, remote sensing, and more. Through a blend of lectures, hands-on projects, and student presentations, students will engage with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies, developing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum culminates with an examination of the ethics surrounding digital archaeology and a discussion of contemporary critical approaches to its practice. This ensures that students not only master technological tools but also critically assess the broader implications and responsibilities inherent in the digital transformation of archaeological work.