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Digging computers
Computer technology has made its way into the anthropology classroom
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The computer age has come to a department known more for digging into
the past.
The anthropology department has recently completed a renovation of an
undergraduate teaching laboratory in Curtiss Hall. The new lab allows
for small tutorial/participatory learning situations, including simulated
archaeological digs.
"The new lab makes all the difference in the world" said Nancy
Coinman, associate professor of anthropology, who coordinated the efforts
to get the new facility. "Most people may think of anthropologists
as people who go around with pith helmets on and run around in the dessert.
But we are actually scientists who do computer applications as well."
Michael Whiteford, professor and chair of the anthropology department,
agrees with his colleague.
"The acquisition of these items immeasurably enhances the instructional
capabilities for several of our entry-level courses in archaeology and
biological anthropology by allowing us to take advantage of the computer
in the classroom" he said. "Because of software now available
we have made a quantum leap in our instructional capabilities that impact
hundreds of students each semester."
The new Anthropology Teaching Laboratory consists of two computers, a
scanner, printer and educational software including:
* Virtual Dig ® - a simulated archaeological excavation of a Middle Paleolithic
site in France. The sophisticated program includes all aspects of planning
and implementing an archaeological dig, computer skills in mapping, analytical
techniques for assessing data generated through the simulated excavations,
variable selection, and generation of data tables and graphs.
"This program is the most innovative, sophisticated interactive experience
with a strong pedagogical base available for instructors of either undergraduate
or graduate courses" Coinman said.
* Entrer ® - this program is utilized by students for collecting accurate
data directly, then exporting that data to statistical software programs.
Coinman says Entrer teaches students modern techniques of archaeological
site and artifact analysis, data collection and management.
* Virtual Laboratories for Physical Anthropology ® - a companion piece
to a textbook, this CD-ROM engages the student in interactive activities
concerning primate anatomy, primate locomotion in the wild, primate skeletal
mechanics and early human fossils.
"The benefit of having the computer facilities to integrate these
programs into the small-class laboratory setting is that the instructors
can now demonstrate lecture material, as well as have students participate
in activities at the same time" Coinman said.
The programs now also allow Iowa State anthropology students and faculty
members access to real collections via the computer rather than just relying
on the collection on campus.
The new lab is already reaping benefits.
"The students can now visualize the concepts I'm talking about"
said Max Post-van der Burg, graduate student. "It's so much easier
to show them the concepts on the computer in real time."
Around LAS
October 2-8, 2000
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