Aotearoa, we need to talk about archaeology — and why our tamariki deserve so much more of it. Podcast links below 👇…
Bitterley C of E Primary School)
Our secondary school education system in Aotearoa New Zealand undervalues the contributions that archaeology makes to our society. We are sitting on an untapped goldmine of potential learning and engagement.
I came to archaeology in New Zealand through a teenage obsession with Classics and Ancient History. It was not until my university studies that I discovered that archaeology is like history in 3D — we deal with the tangible elements of the actions of our collective ancestors. More than that, archaeology in New Zealand felt much closer to me and who I am.
Archaeology generates new understandings of local, regional and national histories. Alongside kĹŤrero tuku iho and written accounts, archaeology contributes perspectives on human adaptation, relationships with the environment, technological development and social change. These themes are central to understanding not just the human story, but how it fits in our local context.
But here’s the exciting part for the next generation: archaeology is a potential professional pathway for students interested in working in the cultural heritage sector. For students who love history, science, story telling or working with communities. We should be opening those doors early for students and not waiting until university.
Other countries around the world celebrate local histories and archaeological contributions to those histories. I believe we are behind the line on this one.
Check out the recording of the Otago Institute Podcast, where I sat with Dr Barb in teasing out my journey into archaeology and the value of doing community archaeology today.
Access media link: https://www.accessradio.org/episode/db1bc67e-e706-4870-8c93-68e682566a2f
YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CV7QFhZwnw
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/54sRe35plpUryw1FIivlec?si=IqFCXArrQeK-IDvlR6hflw