Introduction
Keynote Remaarks:Diane Frankel
Fine Arts & Science
Art & Conservation
American History &
Preservation
Library Sciences &
Preservation
Archaeology,
American History &
Conservation
Practice
Museum Practices &
Conservation
Society of American Archaeologists
Children often form their earliest concepts about conservation through the field of archaeology. Indeed, the work of archaeologists in the formation and care of collections precedes that of conservators, curators, and educators. Yet much like conservators, many archaeologists have come to realize that it is in their best interest to educate the public and steer enthusiasm in proper directions. "Archaeology is more than just finding stuff," points out K C Smith, Museum Program Supervisor for the Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee. "It is the scientific study of past human cultures based upon material remains."
By studying archaeology, students are encouraged to approach problems and think critically through evaluation, analysis, and deduction, to gain sensitivity to other cultures, to understand the consequences of human behavior, and to respect, preserve, and protect the past. The Society for American Archaeology (SAA) has developed publications and lesson plans to help teachers, museum professionals, park interpreters, and museum guides use archaeology as an instructional tool. In light of the continuing "kids vs. digs" debate, the SAA places emphasis on laboratory work and scientific method in examining artifacts and cultural materials.
The SAA assumed this pro-active approach to public education because archaeological sites were being harmed or lost due to vandalism, looting, and development. Site loss could be arrested, the organization concluded, by involving the public as a vital component in the protection of our cultural heritage. Today, the SAA has expanded the scope of its efforts to include interdisciplinary study programs for school children and instructing trekking groups what to do if they find an archaeological site. Smith proudly states, "We are working to make the preservation and protection of cultural property everyone's concern. In our effort to 'save the past for the future,' educating children is one of the best places to start."
Contact the SAA to receive more information on its resources in public education: (202) 789-8200; (202) 789-0284 (fax); or E-mail: public_edu@saa.org.