Course coordinator
Dr Michael Westaway
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2024 (22/07/2024 - 18/11/2024)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Social Science School
This course prepares students for the identification and analysis of human skeletal material excavated at archaeological sites. Students will become familiar with human osteology and skeletal evidence of ancient disease and trauma (palaeopathology). This information is placed in the context of major developments in the human past (eg. changing cultural approaches to death and burial, human migration, social stratification, the development of agriculture and animal domestication, urbanism, colonialism, conflict, and the development of medical treatment). Cultural approaches to death and burial in the archaeological record are explored, as well as the natural and artificial preservation of soft tissues (mummification). Site conditions that lead to bone preservation or break-down are also discussed. Scientific methods used to image, identify and analyse ancient diseases are used increasingly in archaeology, and these are discussed in detail. In addition, this course covers ethical considerations relating to the excavation, analysis, display and repatriation of ancient human remains.
This course provides instruction in human osteology and palaeopathology, with particular reference to major cultural developments in the human past.ﾠ Students will gain hands-on experience in the examination and analysis of skeletal material, skills which are required for professional achaeological practice. A heavy focus will be on working in this sensitive field in Australia, and Indigenous perspectives will be included to help develop skills in ethical practice in Australian bioarchaeology.
***WARNING*** This course covers material that may upset some people.ﾠ For example, the course material will include images of deceased people, human decomposition, skeletal remains, mummified remains, and the visible manifestations of human diseases in soft tissue and bone.ﾠ The course material will also discuss selected diseases and their progression.ﾠ If this material is likely to upset you, please do not enrol in this course.
For the information of students of Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, the course includes published material on ancestral remains from Australia or the Torres Straits. Human remains may be handled in the course but these are not Aboriginal ancestral remains.
Course requirements
Assumed background
The course assumes a basic knowledge of archaeological concepts and methods.
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
2 units from ARCA1000 or ARCS1001
Course contact
School enquiries
Student Enquiries School of Social Science
Level 3, Michie Building (09), St Lucia campus, The University of Queensland.
Monday-Friday, 9:00am-12:00pm, 1:00pm-4:00pm.
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Michael Westaway
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
PUBLIC HOLIDAY: Please note that there will be no lecture or practical class on Monday 7th October, due to the King's public holiday scheduled on that day.
Aims and outcomes
This course aims to provide instruction in human osteology and palaeopathology through the examination of skeletal material, and to place this information in the context of major developments in the human past such as changing cultural approaches to death and burial, human migration, social stratification, the development of agriculture and animal domestication, urbanism, colonialism, conflict, and the development of medical treatment.
Students will develop skills in critical thinking and osteological analysis; skills which are required in professional archaeological practice.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Identify and describe characteristics of human skeletal anatomy (including naming and siding skeletal elements, sexual dimorphism, ancestry, stature calculation, and bone pathology in the human skeleton).
LO2.
Describe and explain the relationship between pathology and major developments in the human past
LO3.
Describe and explain the scientific analysis techniques used to study ancient human bones and soft tissues
LO4.
Describe cultural approaches to death seen in the archaeological record
LO5.
Describe and explain the factors that act to preserve or decay human remains in archaeological environments
LO6.
Describe and explain the correct method of skeletal excavation, recording, transportation and storage
LO7.
Explain the ethical issues arising from the excavation and analysis of human remains
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | Palaeopathology Report | 40% |
25/10/2024
Due 5pm |
| Quiz | Bone Quizzes | 60% |
6/08/2024 - 15/10/2024
Completed in-class Practical Sessions Week 3, Week 6, Week 9, Week 12 |
Assessment details
Palaeopathology Report
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 40%
- Due date
25/10/2024
Due 5pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L05, L06
Task description
Students will research and produce a report on a pathological condition and its implications for archaeological excavation, analysis and interpretation. The potential topics for the report will be issued early in the course. An extensive guidance document containing an example report format is provided on the ARCS2070 Blackboard site in the 'Assessment' section to give students guidance as to the report style and level of detail required for this assessment.
Marking criteria and/or marking rubrics are available in the ‘Assessment’ folder in Blackboard for this course.
AI Use: This assessment task evaluates student’s abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Students are advised that the use of AI technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
You must submit your assignment electronically by the due time, on the due date.
Your assignment must be submitted via Turnitin on blackboard. To submit your assignment electronically log in to https://learn.uq.edu.au/ultra with your UQ username and password, then click on Course Code>>Assessment>>Assignments, and use the appropriate assignment submission link for each piece of assessment. No e-mailed submissions of assessments will be accepted.
Turnitin links will be configured to permit early submission of assessment items. Students will have the opportunity to submit draft assignments to Turnitin prior to submission of the final assignment in order to review similarity index content and to improve academic writing practice in accordance with UQ Academic Integrity policies.
By uploading your assignment via Turnitin, you are certifying that the work you submit is your own work except where correctly attributed to another source. Do not submit your assignment if it contains any work that is not your own. Please note that on the preview page, your assignment will be shown without formatting. Your assignment will retain formatting and your course coordinator/tutor will be able to see formatted assignments. Once you have submitted your assignment you are able to go back and view your submission with the correct formatting.
You are required to retain proof of submission of your assessment. Your Digital Receipt is available for download from your Assignment Dashboard. If you cannot see your submission and download your digital receipt, your assessment has not been successfully submitted; please submit again. If you are unable to submit your assignment by the due date, you will need to apply for an extension through your student portal on my.UQ.
If you are experiencing technical difficulties with Blackboard, please contact the ITS team via AskUs.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
An extension request without penalty will only be considered under exceptional circumstances as outlined on my.UQ. You must submit the extension request as soon as it becomes evident that an extension is needed, but no later than the assessment item submission due date.
A request for an extension to an assessment due date must be accompanied by supporting documentation corroborating the reason for the request. The student submitting the request is fully responsible for all supporting documentation that is provided with the request and should ensure all documents are authentic.
Extensions on the basis of an approved Student Access Plan (SAP) or an Extension Verification Letter (EVL) can be approved for a maximum period of 7 calendar days. Extensions exceeding this duration or subsequent extensions for a piece of assessment will require additional supporting documentation (e.g., a medical certificate or other supporting evidence listed on my.UQ) and Course Coordinator approval.
When you submit an extension request in the student portal, it is received, read, and actioned by the Social Science Student Administration Team. It does not go to the course coordinator.
Late applications (requests received after the assessment item submission due date) must include evidence of the reasons for the late request, detailing why you were unable to apply for an extension by the due date.
In considering applications for extensions, students may be asked to supply the work they have completed to date on the assessment piece. This is to establish what efforts have already been made to complete the assessment, and whether the proposed work plan is feasible.
Late submissions of extension requests in your final semester of study could delay your graduation by up to one semester.
Work can NOT be accepted if it is more than one week (7 calendar days) late without prior approval.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Bone Quizzes
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 60%
- Due date
6/08/2024 - 15/10/2024
Completed in-class Practical Sessions Week 3, Week 6, Week 9, Week 12
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L07
Task description
Four in class quizzes (1 hour) will be delivered over the semester. The quizzes will be conducted during laboratory time. Quizzes are timed assessments that require ansewering short answer/multiple choice questions and the identification of skeletal elements, naming of landmarks, and identificaton of modifications etc. They will test cumulative knowledge gained through the lectures and practical sessions in the course. Content from all weeks prior to the test may be included.
Marking criteria and/or marking rubrics are available in the ‘Assessment’ folder in Blackboard for this course.
AI Use: This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
An extension request without penalty will only be considered under exceptional circumstances as outlined on my.UQ. You must submit the extension request as soon as it becomes evident that an extension is needed, but no later than the assessment item submission due date.
A request for an extension to an assessment due date must be accompanied by supporting documentation corroborating the reason for the request. The student submitting the request is fully responsible for all supporting documentation that is provided with the request and should ensure all documents are authentic.
Extensions on the basis of an approved Student Access Plan (SAP) or an Extension Verification Letter (EVL) can be approved for a maximum period of 7 calendar days. Extensions exceeding this duration or subsequent extensions for a piece of assessment will require additional supporting documentation (e.g., a medical certificate or other supporting evidence listed on my.UQ) and Course Coordinator approval.
When you submit an extension request in the student portal, it is received, read, and actioned by the Social Science Student Administration Team. It does not go to the course coordinator.
Late applications (requests received after the assessment item submission due date) must include evidence of the reasons for the late request, detailing why you were unable to apply for an extension by the due date.
In considering applications for extensions, students may be asked to supply the work they have completed to date on the assessment piece. This is to establish what efforts have already been made to complete the assessment, and whether the proposed work plan is feasible.
Late submissions of extension requests in your final semester of study could delay your graduation by up to one semester.
Work can NOT be accepted if it is more than one week (7 calendar days) late without prior approval.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Cut off Percent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) | 1 - 29 |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 2 (Fail) | 30 - 44 |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) | 45 - 49 |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes |
| 4 (Pass) | 50 - 64 |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 5 (Credit) | 65 - 74 |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 6 (Distinction) | 75 - 84 |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 7 (High Distinction) | 85 - 100 |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. |
Additional course grading information
Final Grade: The final grade is determined by adding together the sum of all individual assessment tasks.ﾠ Grades are calculated based on the marks received.ﾠ Half marks cannot be rounded in the final grade calculation.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Supplementary Assessment: Supplementary assessment is an additional opportunity to demonstrate that the learning requirements for an eligible course have been satisfied and that the graduate attributes for the course have been attained. Supplementary assessment may only be granted where Supplementary Assessment – procedures allow. A passing grade of 4 (or P) is the highest grade that can be awarded in a course where supplementary assessment has been granted. For further information on supplementary assessment please see my.UQ.
Additional assessment information
Academic Integrity: All students must complete the Academic Integrity Tutorial:https://www.uq.edu.au/integrity/
UQ Assignment Writing Guide: Steps for writing assignments - my.UQ - University of Queensland
Release of Marks: The marks and feedback for assessments will be released to students in a timely manner, prior to the due date of the next assessment piece for the course. This is with the exception of the final piece of assessment. The Marks and feedback for the final assessment item are to only be made available to the student on Grade Release Day at the end of semester.
Assessment Re-mark: For information on requesting an assessment re-mark, please view the following page on my.UQ: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/academic-progress-and-final-results/querying-result.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Additional learning resources information
Integrated Pathology Learning Centre:ﾠ The UQ Integrated Pathology Learning Centre, a 21st century facility focussing on excellence in education for health science students and professionals, opened in 2010. An outstanding collection of over 2500 pathology specimens is displayed along with significant objects from the Marks-Hirschfeld Museum of Medical History demonstrating the progression in understanding of human disease from past to present. New and innovative resources and the latest technology are utilised to provide a distinctive educational experience benefiting students, educators, researchers, clinicians and their patients.
Location: Level 6, Health Sciences Building (Building 16) Herston Rd, Herston, Brisbane
Telephone: (07) 3346 5130 (Curator) or (07) 3346 5129
Fax: (07) 3346 5179
Email: pathology.learningcentre@uq.edu.au
Admission: Currently the Centre is open for health professionals, students and staff only. Students are required to show their student card to gain entry to the IPLC.ﾠ The IPLC is not open on public holidays. Please contact the Curator for information on opening hours during semester.
Photography: Please be advised that photography is not permitted inside the IPLC.
Transportation: Take the Number 66 bus from the UQ Lakes Bus Station and get off at the end of the line at Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital (RBWH) stop.ﾠ The Health Sciences Building is visible from the RBWH bus terminal.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 (22 Jul - 28 Jul) |
Practical |
Introduction to Terminology and Concepts Introduction to terminology and concepts used in the study of skeletal remains and disease. Introduction to correct handling of specimens. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Lecture |
Introduction to Bioarchaeology Course overview and introduction to bioarchaeology in professional archaeological practice. Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05, L07 |
|
Week 2 (29 Jul - 04 Aug) |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 1 Osteology of the cranium 1 Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Lecture |
Current Debates and Theory in Bioarchaeology Explores the topics currently under debate in the discipline, as well as theoretical approaches in bioarchaeology. Learning outcomes: L02, L04, L05, L07 |
|
Week 3 (05 Aug - 11 Aug) |
Practical |
Quiz 1 Summarising weeks 1 and 2 Learning outcomes: L01, L06 |
Lecture |
Bioarchaeological techniques Introduction to the scientific methods used to analyse human remains from archaeological sites. Learning outcomes: L06 |
|
Week 4 (12 Aug - 18 Aug) |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 2 Osteology of the cranium 2 Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Lecture |
Ethics in bioarchaeology Ethics in bioarchaeological research, the idea of community bioarchaeology Learning outcomes: L06, L07 |
|
Week 5 (19 Aug - 25 Aug) |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 4 Osteology of the mandible and dentition Learning outcomes: L01 |
Lecture |
Cultural approached to death and burial Methods of body disposal and a general introduction to the aims of mortuary archaeology Learning outcomes: L05 |
|
Week 6 (26 Aug - 01 Sep) |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 5 The first half of the practical will be take up by quiz 2. Learning outcomes: L01 |
Lecture |
Taphonomy and burial excavation Human bone preservation and decay processes in the archaeological record. Correct excavation, recording, transportation and storage of human remains. Learning outcomes: L04, L05 |
|
Practical |
Quiz 2 Summarises Weeks 4 and 5. Learning outcomes: L01, L06 |
|
Week 7 (02 Sep - 08 Sep) |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 6 Osteology of the upper appendicular skeleton part 1 Learning outcomes: L01 |
Lecture |
Congenital and developmental disorders Congenital and developmental disorders in the archaeological record. Evidence for difficult childbirth from skeletal remains Learning outcomes: L01 |
|
Week 8 (09 Sep - 15 Sep) |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 7 Osteology of the upper appendicular skeleton part 2 Learning outcomes: L01 |
Lecture |
Metabolic, hormonal and neoplastic disease Diseases of nutrition, hormonal imbalance and neoplactis (cancer) in the archaeological record, association with different subsistence practices, urbanism and social stratification. Learning outcomes: L01 |
|
Week 9 (16 Sep - 22 Sep) |
Practical |
Quiz 3 Quiz 3 reviewing osteological knowledge and learning from lectures Learning outcomes: L01, L06 |
Lecture |
Infectious diseases 1 Bacterial and viral diseases: Association with the development of sedentism, animal domestication, agriculture, urbanism, colonialism and conflict. Learning outcomes: L02 |
|
Mid Sem break (23 Sep - 29 Sep) |
No student involvement (Breaks, information) |
Mid-Semester Break |
Week 10 (30 Sep - 06 Oct) |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 8 Osteology of the lower appendicular skeleton part 1. Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Lecture |
Infectious disease 2 Parasitic disease: association with the development of sedentism, animal domestication, agriculture, urbanism, colonisalism and conflict Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
|
Week 11 (07 Oct - 13 Oct) |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 9 Osteology of the lower appendicular skeleton part 2 Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Week 12 (14 Oct - 20 Oct) |
Lecture |
Occupational and degenerative diseases Occupational and degenerative diseases in the archaeological record; association with the development of sedentism, agriculture, social stratification, urbanism, conflict and industrialisation. Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 10 First half of the practial will focus on quiz 4. Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
|
Practical |
Quiz 4 Quiz 4 reviewing osteological knowledge and learning from lectures. Learning outcomes: L01, L06 |
|
Week 13 (21 Oct - 27 Oct) |
Practical |
Osteology and Palaeopathology Prac 11 Reconstructing osteobiographies in the School of Anatomy Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Lecture |
Remains of soft tissues and Skeletal Trauma Preservation of soft tissues in the archaeological record (including mummified remains and bog bodies). Scientific analysis of soft tissue remains. Skeletal trauma resulting from conflict and natural disasters; association with the development of sedentism, farming, slavery, colonialism and warfare. Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L05, L06 |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments - Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.