A review of archaeological public outreach programs : interpreting the past and educating the public about archaeology

Abstract

Popular media has had a significant impact on the way the public perceives and interprets the modern discipline of archaeology. As a result, it has become increasingly important for archaeologists to understand how the public perceives archaeology in order to implement successful educational programs. The media is very passive and tends to inform the public about archaeology in a passive way. However, this thesis explores several public outreach programs that have had success with an active approach and that allow for public participation These programs include the National Park Service's Junior Ranger Program and Teacher Ranger Teacher Program, as well as Archaeology Week, a state sponsored program. Furthermore, this thesis indicates that archaeological public outreach programs can be more effective with an active approach. Therefore, if archaeologists institute more programs that require public participation, individuals could gain a greater appreciation for archaeology and archaeological research.