Field School

Our field school aims to provide participants with knowledge about how archaeologists work in the field. We understand that archaeologists do not always do research (academia) and that the vast majority work in CRM (Cultural Resource Management). The field school is designed in such a way that students progressively learn each stage of archaeological work. To this end, we work at several archaeological sites with different configurations that allow them to develop skills in multiple situations.

Week 01. After you arrive, we will lecture on archaeology techniques, the historical background of the region, and the result of the previous season. Then, we survey 04 nearby archaeological sites (so you get acclimatized to the altitude). It is followed by techniques for recording and describing archaeological sites. Since all the sites have different layouts, students identify differences in architectural terms. Recording information includes photogrammetry, using a drone and camera. Besides, surface recollection, and its proper labeling. We simulate situations commonly present in CRM (Cultural Resource Management). CRM is the primary source of work opportunities; we want students to be ready for these jobs. .

 During the explorations, students acquire knowledge of how to set up test pit grids, either individually or aligned over several tens of meters, as well as how to fill out registration forms. Other sites allow students to gain experience in recording architecture or other elements, such as roads and canals. A total of 4 sites are explored, whose complexity and chronology vary (1000 BC – 1500 AD). One of these sites corresponds to the Incas; students will be able to hike along the Inca royal road and examine the complex architecture of this civilization. 

Week 02.  This week is dedicated to excavation, full in camp (Monday to Saturday, 8 to 4 PM). We excavate a complex of tombs.  During the excavation students get familiar with archaeological context description, identification of stratigraphy, recording, and classification of findings. This part includes drawing/mapping of funeral structures/caves, techniques of bone recovery, and identification of the taphonomy process in human remains.  A physical anthropologist is present during the excavations, and lectures about human remains are done in situ as we find the remains. It is the best way to learn, since findings on terrain are different than those in the textbooks. 

Week 03. It is dedicated to lab; analysis of human remains and lectures in forensic anthropology with real samples performed.  The bone analysis’s goal is to obtain biological data from the remains recovered by students themselves during the current season or from previous excavations. Additionally, workshops in ceramic analysis, 3D scans of entire objects, photography, and labeling of material are performed. 

As part of the program we always try to participate in cultural events of the community. We believe it is a unique opportunity for students to have the experience of not only seeing but to participate in such expressions.

BA in Anthropology from CSULB.  She joined the team in 2008 and oversees communication with participants during the application process.

BA Araheology UNMSM, MA. Bioarchaeology, PUCP, and PhD(c) at PUCP. Mellisa came to the project for the first time in 2010. She gives workshops in bioarchaeology and human osteology.

BA in Arts in Anthropology (2016)

Mount Royal University. MA in Archaeology (2020) and PhD (c) at University of Leicester. Dawn started collaborating on the project in 2015. Today, she is overseeing the survey and excavation, as well as managing all the social media and international relations of the project.