Participating in the Past: The Professionalisation of Archaeology; Perceptions of a Closed Shop
6.11 The Professionalisation of Archaeology; Perceptions of a Closed Shop
Keeping the public on the side of archaeological endeavour would appear to be common sense, but the obvious can be neglected in the course of conducting everyday affairs. The profession needs to address perceptions of a closed shop. There are areas where positive action by the profession may not only mend fractured bridges but also achieve a sounder basis for communication with the public and and mutual appreciation in the future. Universities have the potential to make a particularly important contribution in this area by providing appropriate course-content for a new generation of professionals.
As a separate issue respondents also noted that in some cases better dialogue also needed to be established between professionals working within archaeology, notably between sectors of the museum world and commercial archaeological organisations.
- Recommendation 22: The Institute of Field Archaeologists should counter accusations of self-interest by canvassing individuals within local organisations to join the Institute, and by developing programmes which engage their interest and support. The Institute of Field Archaeologists should encourage its members to undertake outreach activities with local groups and societies by offering information, training, and general support. An area of competence covering Outreach might be considered.
- Recommendation 23: Universities should consider including sessions on public archaeology as part of all undergraduate and relevant post-graduate archaeology courses.
- Recommendation 24: Active steps should be taken by the museum education community and commercial archaeological organisations to forge closer links.
