Learning to Harmonise with Nature: A Practical Course in Archaeological Surveying and Data Recording

The Archaeology Programme at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Hasanuddin University, conducted a practical session for the ‘Survey and Data Recording’ course on the lakeside, focusing on GPS plotting and tracking using an Android-based application. This practical session was attended by 45 students from Class A and 46 students from Class B, under the direct supervision of Mr Suryatman, S.S., M.Hum.

This activity is a simulation designed to enhance the technical skills of archaeology students in conducting field surveys and data recording. Under the guidance of the supervising lecturers — Dr Hasanuddin, M.Hum; Suryatman, S.S., M.Hum; Drs Laode Muhammad Aksa, M.Hum; and Fahran Reza, S.S., M.Hum — students not only practised technical skills but also gained an understanding of the philosophy of field education as the core of learning within the Archaeology Undergraduate Programme at the Faculty of Humanities, University of Hasanuddin.

“Through fieldwork practices such as this, students learn to connect with nature, understand the importance of data accuracy, whilst also developing sensitivity towards cultural and environmental contexts,” explained one of the supervising lecturers. A participating student added, “This simulation has made us more confident in facing the challenges of archaeological research in the field.”

Through this practical session, students are encouraged to appreciate that archaeological education is not merely about theory in the classroom, but rather about hands-on experience in the field that fosters meticulousness, sensitivity and a sense of responsibility towards data. As such, this practical session serves as a learning platform that is both practical and reflective, reinforcing the Archaeology Programme’s commitment to producing competent and competitive graduates.