- This event has passed.
Event Navigation
In 2015–2016, we feature presenters who will explain the “so what?” of their findings. Accordingly, we encourage audiences to consider not only the past, but also their own place in our human story.
On October 6, 2015, Jeffrey Ferguson (University of Missouri) will present “Big Data and Big Questions: The Archaeometry Laboratory at the University of Missouri Research Reactor.”
From Jeffrey:
Public dissemination of archaeological data is an important and challenging task for all archaeological research, but some types of data are easier to present to general audiences than others. In this talk, I would like to address the important role that chemical compositional studies play in our understanding of the past and how these data can present interesting information to the public.
The Archaeometry Laboratory at the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) has had a central role in studies of Southwestern pottery and stone tools for decades and this role is becoming ever more entrenched. I hope to explore new ideas for dealing with ever-expanding databases and the increasingly complex research that they can support. Many new research projects associated with Archaeology Southwest are attempting to wrangle these massive datasets into patterns meaningful to broader audiences.
Archaeology Café is an informal forum where adults can learn more about the Southwest’s deep history and speak directly to experts. We have based Archaeology Café on the science pub or science cafe model that developed in Europe and quickly spread to major American cities. At Archaeology Café, we break down the static, jargon-laden dynamic of traditional lectures, and have an expert share some ideas with the group in ways that get discussion going. (Food and drink make things a little livelier, too.)
The program is free, but participants are encouraged to order their own refreshments. Although kids may attend with adult supervision, Archaeology Cafés are best for adults and young adults.
If accommodation is needed due to disability, please contact Kate Gann by email or phone, 520-882-6946 x 16.
Place: We meet on the patio of Casa Vicente, 375 S. Stone Ave., Tucson. Enter through the restaurant.
Time: Presentations begin after 6:00 p.m. It is best to arrive before 5:30 p.m., as seating is open and unreserved, but limited. Share tables and make new friends!
Cost: Archaeology Café is free, but guests are encouraged to order their own refreshments from the menu.
The 2015–2016 season is made possible, in part, by Arizona Humanities.
