Lucy presentation

Public education in applied archeology

Public education in applied archeology involves engaging the public in order to increase awareness and
understanding of archeological methods and practices.public education in applied archeology serves as
a bridge between the academic discipline of archaeology and the public by facilitating dialogue,mutual
learning and by protecting cultural heritage for future generations.

Examples of public education intiatives in applied archeology

 Public lectures and workshops- Archeological institutions in Kenya organize public lectures and
workshops to educate the general public about the significance of archeology ,research projects
and importance of preserving archeological sites.For example The Prehistory Club of Kenya has
been instrumental in holding public lectures to Schools located within Nairobi and it's environs
also to schools around regional museums like kitale, Mombasa Kisumu and Nakuru. This club
organizes quarterly excursions to prehistoric sites like olorgesairie,kariandusi and lukenya which
has enlightened on the importance of preserving our Archeological sites.
 Educational outreach programs - Archeologists and educators collaborate to develop
educational outreach programs for schools and communities . These programs may include
interactive activities and educational materials to engage students and the public in learning
about archaeology. For example New York state museum has collaborated with The University
of Albany during the summer the students go and learn about the processes of archeology ,how
to curate materials for future use ,after the end of the fields school the school helds a event
called ' public day ' where visitors came and the students discuss and share what the found at
the site,teach about the archeology and it's role and also the ethics in archeology like
archeologists just don't dig anywhere.
 Public campaign- awareness campaigns through media and community events are used to
promote the value of archeology and the need for conservation efforts to protect Archeological
sites from destruction and looting . For example the prehistory club of Kenya publishes a
quarterly magazine called 'YAKALE' and have a website ( www.prehistoryclubkenya.org) where
they update there lectures and how it has positively influenced scholars and also local kenyans
to persue careers like archeology and also the excursions to prehistoric sites which makes the
general public understand the importance of mainataing and conserving our natural heritages.
 Site visits and tours- Guide tours of archeological sites and museums are organized to provide
the public with first hand information by explaining the history and role of the sites and artifacts
and experiences of kenyans rich Archeological heritage. For example guide tours in kariandusi
near lake elementaita gives history on how the hand axe man was discorved in 1928 and how
the lake level rose and drove the prehistoric men from their home.

Roles that public education plays in applied archeology

 Fostering community engagement/ involvement - By involving local communities in

Archeological projects, archeologists empower individuals to contribute their knowledge,
 perspectives and experiences to the research process. This collaboration enriches archeological
investigations and also strengthens community ties hence promoting cultural involvement and
diversity.
 Promoting the preservation of cultural heritage - through public education
initiatives,archeologists can share their research findings, methodologies and the importance of
preserving archeological sites with the public , this helps creating a sense of ownership and
responsibility towards cultural heritage among the local community hence leading to increased
support for conservation efforts and sustainable development practices.
 Contributing to local economic development by promoting tourism,creating job opportunities-
through public education in applied archeology Kenya is able to attract tourists who are
interested in exploring the countrys diverse cultural heritage and historical landmarks
contributing to the growth and sustainability of the tourism sector . An example is the fort Jesus
in Mombasa which is a heritage site that showcases the historical importance of Mombasa as a
trading port along east Africa coast ,through educational programs and guided tours available in
the fort tourists are provided with a deeper understanding of the sites significance it's history
and it's role in the regions trade. This has made it a popular destination for cultural travelers.
Public education in applied archeology can attract funding for research projects site
development initiatives and tourism promotions efforts which create opportunities in sectors
like hospitality and tourism services like accomodations and guides.
 Enhance cultural identity - pubic education enhance cultural identity through increasing
awareness and understanding of the past from the extractions and escavations of a given
surrounding where individual develop a deeper connection with their culture. This education
helps to preserve and celebrate diverse cultural identities hence fostering a sense of pride and
belonging within communities. for example Archeological studies in Swahili coastal towns such
as lamu and Mombasa have uncovered ancient artifacts that provide insights on the history of
Swahili people through public education intiatives like museum exhibitions the Swahili people
are able to learn and appreciate their culture thus fostering a sense of pride and connection to
their roots.
 Helps in debunking myths and promoting a more accurate understanding of the past - Through
educational programs workshops and public lectures archeologists can engage with the public to
dispel misconception and myths surrounding archelogy this is by sharing their latest research
findings and scientific techniques. For example public education in applied archeology debunked
the belief that ancient civilizations were more primitive . Through showcasing the technological
innovations and social structures of past cultures, archeologists have been able to challenge this
misconception and have highlighted creativity and resilience of ancient civilizations like
agriculture and governance.
 Plays a role in fostering public interest, support and participation in Archeological research and
efforts on archelogical heritage conservation. Fort Jesus in Mombasa is an example that shows
how public education in applied archeology help in raising awareness through museum
exhibitions and guided tours and building public support and participation in archeological
research and conservation efforts this is through engagement of diverse audiences and creation
of opportunities for learning it's importance and understand the conservation methods , and
collobarations with government agencies, tourists and local community thus helping in the
preservation and sustainability of fort Jesus.