I always wanted to be an archaeologist | Summer School course
This course examines the world and role of the Archaeologist in the study of ancient and contemporary history. Our small group will explore in tutorial environment the influences of Archaeology beyond the walls of the museum.
From A$3,200AUD


Departure Dates
Departure Date | Price |
---|---|
21 January 2024 Ends 27 January 2024 • days A$3,200 Twin A$3,700 Single Available | Selected |
I always wanted to be an Archaeologist
An often-passed comment, when someone first hears that you are an archaeologist is ‘I always wanted to be an archaeologist’. There seems to be, for many, a mystery and/or a romance surrounding this quite uncommon profession. Perhaps the best-known ‘archaeologist’ is the intrepid Indy Jones who blazed across our cinema screens first in 1981, by coincidence the same year that I began excavations in the Middle East. Now although not as fraught with danger as the Hollywood epics would have us believe, being an archaeologist does indeed lend itself to adventures, amazing discoveries and living a ‘dream’. So if you are one of those people who ‘always wanted to be an archaeologist, join this course for a journey through all things archaeological.
Archaeology is a science and the approach to both its theory and practice has undergone many, many alterations over the years. However, having said this, much of the central themes remain static, held in place not only by an interest in what has gone before but also by a curiosity of how the past has shaped our present.
This summer programme, offered for the first time by Odyssey will;
- explore certain of the long-held theories of archaeology
- look at various approaches to the uncovering of past cultures.
- provide an appreciation of the role of Archaeology, but not equip the class attendees with the necessary knowledge and tools to head out and start your very own excavation,
- be able to view particular aspects of our past from a number of different, and perhaps illuminating perspectives.
Various themes will be explored within a fluid classroom context such as;
- excavation techniques,
- ceramic and stone implement identification,
- preservation
- and restoration.
Underwater and maritime archaeology is also to be included while ethno-archaeology and its application will also be touched upon, looking at such things as the symbolism used in weaving from Anatolia (Turkey).
The majority of topics presented and examined in the programme will be illustrated by reference to actual excavations from;
- Israel,
- Turkey,
- Jordan,
- Portugal,
- Greece
- and Germany.
The focus of the short 5 day program is to be informative and entertaining. Within a tutorial-type discussion around particular chosen themes as well as providing certain group-orientated activities.
Summer School classes for mature and senior travellers
Odyssey offers a collection of week-long learning programs offered each January in Leura, Bue Mountains, NSW. Courses are refreshed for each year’s programs. Classes are limited to 15 people.
Over the last twenty-five years, Odyssey’s small group Summer School Program has given countless travellers an unforgettable educational and travel experience. Each summer, we prepare and offer fun and challenging special interest courses and programs designed to give travellers the options and opportunity to learn about history, religion, Australian culture, and the arts, among many other topics. These courses are designed in such a way that enthusiasts can deepen their knowledge of a particular topic or be initiated into new understandings on a subject.
These programs offered are tailor-made for mature-aged and senior travellers who are eager to explore in-depth a particular topic. Summer school learning programs for mature and senior travellers who are and remain curious about the world. Read more about our philosophy of the Odyssey Summer Schools.
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Itinerary
Day 1: Leura, Blue Mountains
Accommodation: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
The Summer school program begins with a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 2: Leura, Blue Mountains
Accommodation: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
The role of the Archaeologist.
Discussion and framework about the greats, the intriguing and the contribution beyond the museums.
An indicative day in the classroom/ tutorial is anticipated to cover discussion and short analysis and presentations as a group…
Day 3: Leura, Blue Mountains
Accommodation: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
Excavation techniques.
The majority of topics presented and examined in the programme will be illustrated by reference to actual excavations from;
- Israel,
- Turkey,
- Jordan,
- Portugal,
- Greece
- and Germany.
An indicative day in the classroom/ tutorial is anticipated to cover discussion and short analysis and presentations as a group…
Day 4: Leura, Blue Mountains
Accommodation: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
The transition for field to lab analysis and theories.
- ceramic and stone implement identification,
- preservation
- and restoration.
An indicative day in the classroom/ tutorial is anticipated to cover discussion and short analysis and presentations as a group…
Day 5: Leura, Blue Mountains
Accommodation: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
Ethno-archaeology and its application.
Examining and discussing the symbolism used in weaving from Anatolia (Turkey) and the influence on Persia and rugs.
An indicative day in the classroom/ tutorial is anticipated to cover discussion and short analysis and presentations as a group…
Day 6: Leura, Blue Mountains
Accommodation: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
Underwater and maritime Archaeology.
Stories from the field and reflection on the week.
An indicative day in the classroom/ tutorial is anticipated to cover discussion and short analysis and presentations as a group…
Day 7: Leura, Blue Mountains
The course will end after breakfast.
Includes / Excludes
What’s included in our Tour
- 6 nights in full en suite accommodation
- 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners.
- Lectures and handouts as indicated.
- Services of a study leader and lecturers.
- Complimentary wifi.
What’s not included in our Tour
- Comprehensive travel insurance.
- Costs of a personal nature.
Participants must be able to carry their own luggage, climb and descend stairs, moderate walking on uneven surfaces between 3 - 5 kilometers per day. Suitable for most fitness levels
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Make it a private tour
Easing your journey
Crossing international borders with restrictions
The list of requirements to travel internationally has changed and will continue to change for several years. Odyssey is here to assist you in managing your way through these requirements:
For more information see our Crossing international borders with restrictions page.
Book With Confidence
If less than 30 days before your tour starts you are unable to travel as a result of Government travel restrictions, Odyssey Traveller will assist you with a date change, provide you with a credit or process a refund for your booking less any non-recoverable costs.
See Terms and conditions for details.
Peace of Mind Travel
The safety of our travellers, tour leader, local guide and support staff has always been our top priority and with the new guidelines for public health and safety for keeping safe for destinations around the world, we’ve developed our plan to give you peace of mind when travelling with us.
See Peace of Mind Travel for details.
Reviews
The presenter delivered a very interesting program that was varied and covered all the topics in an engaging way. The restaurant met my dietary requirement (allergies) very well and the food was excellent. The actual program was excellent. Jenni S. Jan'21