The Countless Perceptions of Archaeology in Archaeological Societies: A Case Study Involving the Oklahoma Anthropological Society

Summary

The public has a genuine interest in archaeology of which avocational and amateur archaeological groups are among the most vocal. The greatest area of interest among avocationalists is in participating in archaeological research, which has led eight states to develop and implement archaeology certification programs. These program are designed to train avocationals on how to contribute to the professional field and laboratory projects. However, while these state certification programs seek to provide avocationals with increased archaeological expertise, some states, such as Oklahoma, are struggling to make it beneficial for both avocational and professional archaeologists. In this paper, I use the Oklahoma Anthropological Society’s (OAS) recent shelving of and subsequent effort to revitalize its archaeological certification program as a case study. I explore how OAS’s professional and avocational perceptions of archaeology have shaped the needs and interests in a collaborative program, such as certification. I also explore how these programs are innovative approaches to sharing information, while promoting public awareness on archaeological stewardship and literacy. This is because these programs demonstrate how, we, as archaeologists are willing to fulfill both our legal and ethical obligations to sharing information, while gaining an understanding and appreciation of our shared heritage.

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This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 80th Annual Meeting, San Francisco, CA (2015)   •
• Public Perceptions of Archaeology

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