4. Dating Methods

This module will introduce a number of dating methods used in archaeology to estimate the time period of a site, context, or feature. Each of these methods will be discussed in turn alongside their strengths and weaknesses. Dating methods are perhaps the most fundamental step in understanding archaeological sites and objects, as without a way to understand the time period something came from, how can we ever analyse what it means and how it fits into the grand scheme of the past. Some of these methods are relatively simple, and can be applied to a site as the excavation is conducted. Simple does not mean easy, however, and methods such as typological datingA method that groups artefacts into types based on shared features and assigns dates based on known historical styles or production trends. can require years of study to properly employ. Other methods are extremely complex and rooted in scientific labwork, requiring specialist equipment, training, and knowledge to correctly apply to a site.