Underwater Archaeology

Created by Dr Colin J. Martin, Honorary Reader in Maritime Archaeology, University of St Andrews

What kind of resource is this?

A structured PowerPoint presentation, arranged in modular sections which can either be viewed as a sequential lecture or used as individual units to introduce specific topics. It provides a focused introduction to shipwreck archaeology as well as the wider concepts of historical archaeology, leading to the recognition and identificiation of evidence, the posing of questions and the process of formulating and testing hypotheses. The presentation is backed up by a commentary and teacher’s notes, and links to other internet resources and relevant literature.

These materials are based on the archaeology of a single shipwreck – the Cromwellian warship Swan which was lost off Duart Point, Mull in 1653. The topics addressed however cover a range of issues relevant to underwater archaeology more generally.

Read the full case study to find out more about this resource and how it was made.

Who was it designed for?

Undergraduate students in underwater archaeology, although it will also appeal to divers and others with an interest in underwater archaeology. It also complements the internationally-based training programme operated by the Nautical Archaeology Society.

Points of interest:

This unique resource draws on Colin Martin’s 35 years of experience as an archaeologist and historian, specialising in shipwreck and landscape studies. It incorporates dozens of photographs from his own extensive collection of images many of which are also available on Scran. The author’s excavation work on the Swan – the shipwreck on which these materials are based - has also been featured in BBC2’s Journeys to the Bottom of the Sea and Channel 4’s The Wreck Detectives.

View these resources:

• Underwater Archaeology | PowerPoint Show
• Notes | PDF
• User Guide | PDF