Predictive Modelling in Underwater Archaeology. A Case Based on Mesolithic Coastal Settlements in Denmark

Abstract

Research on underwater archaeological sites has been adversely affected by various socioeconomic (specialized equipment, lack of know-how, legal framework, etc.) and environmental (weather conditions, site formation processes, etc.) challenges. Interdisciplinary approaches, especially technology integration, can help introduce a methodology to evaluate these factors and mitigate limitations to enhance the information retrieved and assist the interpretation process. One such approach may be predictive modelling while developing methodologies based on predictive models can be assets in research. The work presented in this article is based on this approach and assesses the use of predictive models based on six case studies. It is an effort to evaluate whether targeting sub-areas when excavating on limited time and budget can help clarify the interpretation of the information collected from these areas.