Science and Technology for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage

OBJECTIVES Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to (i) identify theoretical and methodological tools in bioarchaeology, with a particular focus on isotopic investigations; (ii) critically analyse studies on past dietary practices through data obtained from human, animal and plant remains; (iii) acquire advanced skills in analyses for the reconstruction of diet and mobility in archaeological contexts; (iv) understand the value of integrating theoretical approaches and laboratory analyses for a multidisciplinary reading of bioarchaeological data; (v) apply the knowledge acquired to the protection and outreach of cultural heritage, using bioarchaeological data to enrich museum narratives and promote greater awareness of cultural heritage. General Objective The course aims to provide advanced knowledge on bioarchaeological methods and techniques for the analysis of human remains (with reference to animal and plant remains) from ancient contexts. Students will develop critical skills, apply expertise in interdisciplinary contexts and be able to interpret data with a view to heritage protection and outreach. Through a series of theoretical lectures, followed by practical sessions on specific methodologies, the course aims to stimulate autonomy of judgement, ability to work in groups, communication skills and continuous learning. A - Knowledge and understanding OF 1) To know the theoretical and methodological tools of bioarchaeology OF 2) To understand the methodologies of investigation for the reconstruction of diet and mobility in ancient contexts OF 3) To understand the value of integrating theoretical approaches and laboratory analyses OF 4) To apply the acquired knowledge for the conservation and valorisation of cultural heritage OF 5) To know the field of application of bioarchaeological analyses in cultural heritage B - Application skills OF 6) To be able to deduce which methodologies of bioarchaeological investigations are best suited to the specific cultural context OF 7) To be able to solve problems arising from application limitations in cultural heritage investigations OF 8) To be able to analyse and develop bioarchaeological data OF 9) To be able to apply acquired knowledge for the conservation of cultural heritage C - Autonomy of judgment OF 10) To be able to assess the risk/benefit ratio in applying innovative investigation techniques in cultural heritage OF 11) To be able to integrate the knowledge acquired in order to preserve and protect bioarchaeological remains OF 12) Critically evaluate the bioarchaeological literature D - Communication skills OF 13) To know how to communicate the results obtained during the practicals in a clear and objective manner OF 14) Being able to convey information from group and individual practicals, critically presenting the result of what has been learnt E - Ability to learn OF 15) Have the ability to consult reference literature in the bioarchaeological field OF 16) Have the ability to evaluate benefits, limitations and risks in the application of bioarchaeological investigations OF 17) Being able to conceive and develop a bioarchaeological project with scientific and outreach goals