Course Description

The archaeology of Africa is a rich and complex subject. It dissolves the myth of a ‘dark continent’ devoid of history, and reveals instead the diversity of the African experience. By exploring this largely unwritten past, we can demonstrate Africa’s significant contribution to our human heritage, and better understand the challenges the continent faces in the 21st century.

From human origins to the development of agriculture and the rise of complex societies, African Archaeology offers a broad introduction to the archaeology of the African continent. We explore key research themes and engage with interdisciplinary methodologies that include physical anthropology, written and oral histories, environmental studies and ethnography.

Incorporating the latest archaeological research, we focus on areas south of the Sahara to discover how Africa has long played an integral role in world cultural and economic systems.

Learners work through the programme under the guidance of the course tutor, and can access their study materials 24/7. The course is suitable for beginners, and no prior knowledge of the topic is required. Learners who do have some experience in the subject will have many opportunities to deepen their knowledge and understanding.

Course materials, readings and interactive learning experiences are accessed through the Academy’s virtual learning environment (VLE). Engaging with the tutor and with other learners is a key element of this learning experience.

Programmes for 2012

Spring Programme: In progress.
Summer Programme: 23rd April to 2nd July 2012.   Enrolling now!

Course Content

In this course we cover the following topcs:

• Introducing Africa: An Archaeological Perspective
• The Emergence of Humans
• The Middle Stone Age
• The Later Stone Age and the Archaeology of Hunter Gatherers
• The Development of Farming
• Specialisation of Production and Processes of Urbanisation
• Complex Societies of West Africa
• Complex Societies of East Africa
• Complex Societies of Southern Africa
• Archaeology of the Colonial Period

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course students should be able to:

• Demonstrate a broad understanding of African prehistory and the archaeological record of the sub-continent;
• Explain how the different peoples of Africa are represented archaeologically;
• Discuss Africa’s integrated cultural and economic position within global systems;
• Debate and evaluate some of the key theoretical and methodological issues in African archaeology.