Dear all,
This just exemplifies the concerns I raised in my earlier contribution to the discussion. This ‘democratisation’ of archaeology and its promotion as something to be consumed, as some form of entertainment, is exactly what Carmen Hermosillo warned about. It’ll lead to the loss of scientific rigour, dumbing-down of the subject in most forms of media, an increasing number of sites / media which tout unscientific ‘archaeological’ ideas. In a world where all views / opinions are equally valid and are consumed, counted, and rated against the real archaeologist, who do think is going to dominate?
All the best,
Neil Campling
PS: see me on Facebook!
From: Issues related to Historic Environment Records [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Paul Cripps
Sent: 10 May 2012 15:57
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Local Engagement
Those of you interested in such things may also like to have a look at the following book, only recently published, edited by Chiara Bonacchi: Archaeology and Digital Communication: Towards Strategies of Public Engagement
“Archaeologists now face a myriad of digital ways of engaging with the public – social media, online TV channels, games, etc. It is critical that this potential and its limitations are closely assessed and utilised to make archaeology a genuinely public activity. Archaeology and Digital Communication examines how archaeology engages the public in the rapidly changing world of communication.
This volume proposes digital strategies of public engagement that will be of interest to archaeologists working in various contexts, particularly in collaboration with media professionals and institutions. It identifies some of the most promising uses of digital media in different domains of archaeological communication and the benefits they can generate for participants. Each use is presented through case studies highlighting how media experiences are designed and consumed. While providing specific operational recommendations, Archaeology and Digital Communication also attempts to chart potential new directions for research.”
http://www.archetype.co.uk/publication-details.php?id=155
Paul Cripps
Geomatics Manager
Portway House,
Mob: +44 7765 226746 Tel: +44 1722 326867