What is a competency challenge
Competency challenge is a process that enables a person to demonstrate his or her knowledge, skills, and abilities about a subject. Throughout the process the person is evaluated compared to a predetermined set of standards of achievement. At the end of the process a decision using a pass/fail rating will be awarded. This process does not include any training or coaching.
In the case of Archaeology Inventory Training for Crew Members the competency challenge confirms a person’s ability to identify archaeological sites and features throughout British Columbia. It will also verify a person’s ability to conduct a surface inventory and complete the B.C. Archaeological Site Inventory Form.
Who should take the archaeology inventory competency challenge
Anyone who believes that they have adequate knowledge about archaeological sites and features identification AND appropriate experience working as an archaeological crew member AND appropriate experience in completing the B.C. Archaeological Site Inventory Form. Also the person should feel capable of meeting all course objectives listed on the following page.
Note: Anyone considering taking the competency challenge must have successfully completed the RIC–Resource Inventory Skills Training or possess equivalent demonstrated skills (navigating and surveying skills).
What is the process and passing standard
The challenge process takes 1-day to complete and consists of the two components described below:
| Written exam |
1-hour written exam with no access to materials:
- identify the site type and two indicators for ten sites (30 marks)
- complete three general questions (3 marks)
|
70% (i.e. 23 out of 33 marks) |
| Practical Field Work |
Working in a team of two:
- conduct a mock surface inventory taking field notes
- transcribe notes
- complete an archaeological site inventory form
|
Follow proper survey methodology
Accurate recording of information on the archaeological site inventory form based on 80% match with the facilitator’s form |
Course objectives:
- List the reasons for an archeological inventory.
- Describe how
an archaeological inventory is conducted.
- Describe the laws and
ethical standards which archaeologists follow.
- Describe an archaeological
inventory to clients, members of the public, and First Nations.
- Read maps and navigate confidently in the field.
- Describe the
types of resources that should be consulted prior to conducting
an inventory.
- Record observations in field notes, including landforms,
vegetation and accurate location.
- Describe how to avoid damaging
fragile sites while recording them.
- Identify archaeological sites.
- Identify the present and past
environmental setting.
- Identify the natural and cultural processes
that have affected the site since its disposition and eventual
abandonment
- Be aware of special concerns regarding burial sites.
- Conduct
a surface survey.
- Conduct a surface collection.
- Record the features of a variety
of archaeological sites.
- Complete site forms and site maps.
What equipment is needed
Each person is expected to supply the
following personal equipment/supplies:
- Field note book and waterproof paper
- Good footware (caulk
boots or hiking boots recommended)
- Appropriate bush clothing
- Rain gear
- Backpack or field vest (if available)
- Lunch and snacks
- Water bottle
- Whistle
|
