Archaeobotany
A.Y. 2022/2023
Learning objectives
The aim of the course is to provide knowledge regarding the relationship between humans and plants, in multiple aspects and on a long-term scale, through the study that sorts from archaeological sites. The course aims to encourage the acquisition of an interdisciplinary vision including general knowledge related to Botany and the applications to Archeology.
Expected learning outcomes
The student will learn about the basic knowledge on sampling and interpretation of the significante of botanical records from archaeological sites. The student will acquire the ability to understand the literature and methodologies of paleoecological, palynological and ethnobotanical studies. The student will recognize the links between basic research and applied research in relation to socio-environmental issues and will be able to critically discuss what has been learned. In addition, he/she will learn to use a correct scientific language.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Insegnamento erogato ad anni alterni, non attivo nell'A.A 22-23
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Definitions of Archaeobotany. Type of microscopic and macroscopic records. Interdisciplinary approach and interpretations. Sampling, treatment and isolation of the finds, microscopic analysis. Archaeobotany as a method of measurement of environmental variables. Concepts of botanical classification and groups of terrestrial plants. Xilo-anthracology and the anatomy of wood. Palynology: pollen morphology (diagnostic characters), applications (aerobiology, melissopalinology, forensic palynology, paleopalynology, archeopalynology). Pollen indicators of environmental transformations and anthropic impact. Ethnobotany: history, methods and study of the relationship between humans and plants. Case studies.
Prerequisites for admission
Basic knowledge of scientific studies applied to Cultural Heritage.
Teaching methods
The course takes place through streaming lessons (TEAMS platform) carried out with the aid of audiovisual media (PowerPoint, videos of lectures and seminars taken by the teacher). Exercises are foreseen in the form of tasks given to students to study some topics.
Teaching Resources
Recorded lessons, videos and scientific papers provided by the teacher.
Assessment methods and Criteria
Oral exam to verify the theoretical skills related to the topics in the program and the ability to display the concepts correctly. The exam is divided into 4-5 questions; the final mark, expressed in thirtieths, corresponds to the average evaluation of the answers given by the candidate.
BIO/02 - SYSTEMATIC BOTANY - University credits: 6
Lessons: 48 hours