Program Overview
Introduction to AHIS1301 – World Archaeology
The unit AHIS1301, World Archaeology, is designed to explore the human past from prehistoric times up to the present. Students will examine a range of archaeological material from different parts of the world, from prehistory to the early medieval period. By exploring various ancient cultures, students will observe the interdisciplinary approach that contemporary archaeology utilizes when facing broader questions such as the origin of the human species, its evolution, and its interaction with the natural environment until the emergence of complex societies and then the blooming and diversity of historical societies.
General Information
- Unit Convenor and Teaching Staff: Danijel Dzino
- Credit Points: 10
- Prerequisites: None
- Corequisites: None
- Co-badged Status: None
- Unit Description: This unit provides a broad knowledge and understanding of past societies, introducing methodology and theoretical issues when necessary.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- Acquire knowledge of a range of archaeological cultures, sites, and material in their geographic and chronological contexts.
- Understand how past societies developed and interacted worldwide and some of the principles, concepts, and techniques used in the study of the archaeology of the world.
- Read literature from different archaeological disciplines and interpret written and material evidence with appreciation and understanding.
- Plan and present written arguments about archaeological cultures and material in coherent and documented form.
- Apply and adapt knowledge of a range of issues, questions, and problems relating to the contemporary understanding of the past.
General Assessment Information
- Grading decisions for each assessment task will be moderated against the set criteria and standards before task results are released.
- A late assessment penalty of 5% of the total possible mark will be applied each day a written assessment is not submitted, up until the 7th day (including weekends). After the 7th day, a mark of '0' (zero) will be awarded even if the assessment is submitted.
Assessment Tasks
- Research Essay: 40%, Due: 31/10/2025
- Short Paper: 30%, Due: 12/09/2025
- Online Quizzes: 20%, Due: Weeks 8 and 13
- Comments on Readings: 10%, Due: Weeks 3-5
Research Essay
- Assessment Type: Essay
- Indicative Time on Task: 26 hours
- Weighting: 40%
- Description: A 2,000 words research essay.
Short Paper
- Assessment Type: Essay
- Indicative Time on Task: 25 hours
- Weighting: 30%
- Description: A 1,000 words short paper.
Online Quizzes
- Assessment Type: Quiz/Test
- Indicative Time on Task: 14 hours
- Weighting: 20%
- Description: Two online quizzes.
Comments on Readings
- Assessment Type: Reflective Writing
- Indicative Time on Task: 7 hours
- Weighting: 10%
- Description: An online post on a reading.
Delivery and Resources
- Access to a library and/or article database such as JSTOR will be necessary to complete the assignments.
- All lectures, assignments, and readings will be posted on the course's iLearn site.
- Optional Textbooks:
- M. Diaz-Andreu, S. Lucy, S. Babić, & D. N. Edwards, The Archaeology of Identity: Approaches to gender, age, status, ethnicity and religion (London & New York, 2005)
- C. Scarre & B. Fagan, Ancient Civilizations (4th ed.) (London & New York, 2016)
Unit Schedule
The final unit schedule will be available on the iLearn site.
Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
- Academic Appeals Policy
- Academic Integrity Policy
- Academic Progression Policy
- Assessment Policy
- Fitness to Practice Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Complaints Resolution Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
- Special Consideration Policy
Student Code of Conduct
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct.
Academic Integrity
At Macquarie, academic integrity – honesty, respect, trust, responsibility, fairness, and courage – is at the core of learning, teaching, and research.
Student Support
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students, including:
- Academic Success
- The Library
- IT Support
- Accessibility and disability support with study
- Mental health support
- Safety support to respond to bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, and sexual assault
- Social support including information about finances, tenancy, and legal issues
- Student Advocacy provides independent advice on MQ policies, procedures, and processes
