Historical archaeology and public engagement

Abstract

This chapter discusses how archaeologists determine appropriate levels of archaeological involvement and subjects in an educational setting, and, as a consequence, to what subjects or topics archaeology contributes. Drawing from their varied experiences of working within archaeology in USA and UK, the authors consider innovative applications of which they are particularly proud, as well as applications of archaeology that you would like to see but have not been able to make it work. In particular, Scott-Ireton draws on her experience of working on behalf of the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN) in USA, promoting public engagement in archaeological fieldwork in the State. This contrasts with Gaimster's work on behalf of the Society of Antiquaries of London (SAL) in UK, where public engagement takes very different forms.