The Challenges of teaching the Subject “Archaeology” in Regional Universities, using the Example of Vanadzor State University

Abstract

Key words: archeology, archeology of Armenia, teaching, museum practice, excavations, methods of teaching archeology, archeology textbook In regional universities of the Republic of Armenia, the course “Archaeology” is part of the general academic program within the specialization of “History.” The number of hours allocated for this subject may vary depending on the educational institutions. At Vanadzor State University, “Archaeology” is taught for a total of 58 academic hours. We have developed educational materials, including lectures and textbooks, to prepare a curriculum that covers the fundamentals of archaeology and the archaeological periods of Armenia, ranging from early historical periods to the late Middle Ages. Various teaching methods are employed during the learning process, including lectures, seminars, discussions, debates, and practical exercises. Classroom sessions utilize methods such as problem-based lectures, dialogical lectures, discussion-based lectures, seminar discussions, and others, depending on the specific topic and methodology. One of the challenges in teaching “Archaeology” is the absence of a suitable textbook that fully aligns with the curriculum. To address this issue, we propose the development of an interdisciplinary textbook that encompasses the basics of archaeology, geology, and geography. This textbook should cover archaeology from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages, based on contemporary technologies and scientific advancements, while complying with the educational standards of universities. To enhance the effective teaching of “Archaeology” and the preparation of future archaeologists, it is suggested to increase the number of credit hours allocated for this subject in universities and to offer it over two semesters in the first year. This approach will establish a comprehensive link between “Armenian History” and historical periods of the Ancient East.