Field Notes

Definition

Field notes are detailed records created by archaeologists during excavation and research that document observations, findings, and reflections about the archaeological site. They serve as an essential source of evidence for later analysis, allowing archaeologists to reconstruct the context of their findings and ensure accurate reporting of the excavation process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Field notes are typically organized chronologically, allowing archaeologists to track the progress of their excavation and any changes that occur over time.
2. They include not just descriptions of artifacts and features, but also sketches, photographs, measurements, and even thoughts on the excavation process.
3. Field notes are crucial for maintaining a chain of evidence, which is important for legal and academic purposes in archaeology.
4. Effective field notes can greatly enhance collaboration between team members, providing everyone with access to the same documented information.
5. After an excavation, field notes often serve as primary sources for publications and reports that contribute to our understanding of historical sites.

Review Questions

• How do field notes contribute to the overall process of excavation and the analysis of archaeological findings?
  • Field notes play a vital role in the excavation process by providing a detailed account of what occurs on-site. They help document not only the artifacts found but also the context in which they were discovered. This context is crucial for understanding the relationships between different findings and how they fit into the broader historical narrative. By capturing observations about soil layers, artifact associations, and excavation methods, field notes serve as a foundational resource for later analysis.
• Discuss the importance of maintaining accurate field notes in relation to stratigraphy and site mapping.
  • Accurate field notes are essential for effective stratigraphy and site mapping. Stratigraphy relies on precise documentation to establish chronological sequences and understand how different layers interact with each other. Field notes provide details about the composition, depth, and characteristics of these layers. Similarly, when creating site maps, field notes guide archaeologists in accurately placing artifacts and features within their spatial context. Together, they help create a cohesive picture of the site's history.
• Evaluate the implications of inadequate field notes on archaeological interpretation and future research opportunities.
  • Inadequate field notes can severely compromise archaeological interpretation and limit future research opportunities. If observations are poorly documented or missing entirely, it becomes difficult to reconstruct the context surrounding findings accurately. This lack of context can lead to misinterpretations or lost information that could provide valuable insights into past cultures. Furthermore, incomplete records may hinder collaboration among researchers and reduce the reliability of published findings, ultimately affecting how future studies build upon earlier work.

Related terms

Stratigraphy:

The study of rock layers (strata) and layering, which helps archaeologists understand the chronological sequence of events at a site.

Site Mapping: The process of creating a detailed map of an archaeological site, including the location of artifacts, features, and structures to aid in analysis and interpretation.

Artifact Analysis: The examination and interpretation of artifacts recovered from an archaeological site to gain insights into past human behaviors and cultural practices.