Computational models in Palaeolithic Archaeology and Palaeoecology
Date: November 27, 2018
Venue: CENIEH, Paseo Sierra de Atapuerca, 3. Burgos (Spain)
Registration fee: Free. (Inscription required)
Although the use of simulation and computational models is widespread in archaeology and ecology, their presence in palaeolithic archaeology and Pleistocene palaeoecology is far from being pervasive. The aim of this course is to provide an overview of a number of computational modeling techniques useful for the study of human evolution, behavior and ecology in the Pleistocene. The course is oriented to archaeologists and palaeontologists interested in incorporating new methodological approaches in their research, but also to undergraduate and Ph.D. students willing to complement their training with an overview of several research approaches that are innovative in the fields of palaeolithic archaeology and palaeoecology. Since this intends to be an introductory course, previous knowledge of these methodological approaches or experience in computational modeling are not required. The course will show how to formalize hypothesis about human dispersals, behaviours, and environmental dynamics and how they may be translated into models; what can be learned with the use of computational models and how can the results be validated. Researchers attending the course will be invited to share their research questions with the audience during the Round Table session, and to discuss with the experts the way computational models may help them to address those questions.
Preliminary Program:
- 8:00 h. Registration
- 8:20 h. Opening
- 8: 30 h. Introduction to Simulation.
- 9:30 h. Introduction to Agent-Based Models
- 10:30 h. Coffee Break
- 11:00 h. Network Analysis
- 12:00 h. Niche Modelling
- 13:00 h. Lunch
- 14:30 h. GIS and GeoStatistics
- 15:30 h. Assessing prey competition with Computational Models
- 16:30 h. Coffee Break
- 17:00 h. Round Table and discussion (“Model Problem Market”)
