National Occupational Standards in
Archaeological Practice

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AK2 Contribute to advances in the body of knowledge and archaeological practice

AK2.1 Contribute to advances in knowledge and theory that underpin archaeological practice

Performance Required

This will involve:

1. accurately identifying inadequacies in current knowledge and theory of archaeological practice and justifying criticisms
2. presenting clear and coherent proposals which describe and justify modifications to and advances in knowledge and theory of archaeological practice including key references and sources of information and support
3. where proposals derive from a joint research, investigation or development initiative, identifying own role and contribution clearly in documentation presented
4. supporting proposals with valid evidence based on rigorous and comprehensive research using appropriate methods
5. inviting recipients of proposals to comment formally on the proposals and giving them opportunities to ask questions, challenge assumptions and findings and seek clarification

Occupational Context

1. Knowledge and theory may relate to:
   • purposes of archaeology
   • policies on archaeology
   • management of the archaeological process
   • management of archaeological sites
   • regulation and legislation relating to archaeological sites and objects
   • archaeological interpretation
   • archaeological techniques
   • research techniques to support archaeology
2. Sources of theories:
   • books and research reports
   • professional journals
   • the curricula of learning programmes
   • contemplation and reflection
   • research
   • observation
   • discussion

Knowledge Requirements

You need to know and understand how to:

• Identify and summarise inadequacies of current knowledge and theory
• Develop and justify modifications and advances in knowledge and theory
• Conduct a programmes of research

You need to know about:

• Current knowledge and theory in archaeological practice

Required Skills

You should:

Evidence Required

You should provide evidence that you can contribute to advances in knowledge and theory which underpin archaeological practice

The candidate should be questioned, based upon the documentation provided, to explore how they have:

• contributed to advances in knowledge and theory which underpin archaeological practice

Observation of the candidate or witness testimony will be essential as evidence of performance

Evidence must include defined inadequacies in current knowledge and theory identified and summarised and proposals for modifications to / advances in knowledge and theory

Evidence Rules

The candidate should have been involved in contributing to advances in the body of knowledge and archaeological practice.

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Today's date: 4/2/2012
This page last updated: 27/7/2007 15:17