Understanding archaeological misconceptions among college students

Abstract

Archaeology is an important science that impacts the lives of people, yet it is not well understood by the public nor is it typically taught in schools. This study examines what college students know about archaeology and where they report gaining their knowledge. The study includes 273 college students surveyed, at California State University, Long Beach Spring 2010, using a Draw-An-Archaeologist-Test (DART) that included both qualitative and quantitative questions. The DART requires students to draw an archaeologist at work and rate the importance of different sources of knowledge. Results indicate most people hold misconceptions about archaeologists such as: archaeology is primarily done by males; primarily done in the field; and includes the study of paleontology or geology. Both formal and informal learning environments may impact how people think about archaeology and their misconceptions. Findings may assist educators in bringing about a positive change in misconceptions held by people.