Session 1
Introduction
to and the development of archaeoastronomy.
The
historical background and its position relative to mainstream archaeology.
Explanation of the importance of an interdisciplinary
approach
Session 2
Introduction
to some of the basic astronomical concepts;
By examining
a number of selected sites in Europe and beyond.
Session 3
The Neolithic
and Bronze age in Britain.
Introduction
of available evidence from groups of monuments, such as tombs and circles, in order to assess validity and provide a basis
for other sites.
Session 4
Introduction
to computer techniques and applications related to archaeoastronomy.
Utilising the
latest developments and applications such as ‘Skyglobe’, effects such as precession may be studied. Assignment
advice at this session.
Session 5
World Archaeoastronomy.
Selected sites
from Egypt, Americas, Greece, China and the Asian Continent, to examine the religious and social importance – ethnoastronomy.
Session 6
Prehistoric astronomy.
Science or symbolism?
Interpretation of astronomical symbolism in monumental architecture.
Session 7
Case History.
Selecting one
or two important sites, make an investigative study into the historical perspective and reasoning, or purpose, for the construction
of the site itself.
Session 8
Megalithic astronomy
Introduction
to mainly sites in Britain and Ireland and their alignments.
Session 9
Latest theories
and developments.
This thriving
subject is continually expanding, and so it is important to keep abreast of the latest developments and ideas to help the
student develop a critical understanding of the role of archaeastronomy
Session 10
Overview of course
and final discussion of the selected projects/assignments as given out in the first session.
