So that their graves overlooked the sea: Student experience of the Philippines International Archaeological Field School

Abstract

Practical archaeological experience is essential in the training of future bioarchaeologists. This essay recounts the experience received by the author during undergraduate studies at a field school held in the Philippines. The site in Catanauan, central Philippines, provides the opportunity for students to receive training in survey, excavation, heritage work, artefact analysis and research design on real archaeological material. Furthermore, the experience encouraged independent archaeological thought and true scope in relation to the theoretical aspects of the discipline that were taught in class.