Human Osteology

Catalog description

Credits 3. 2 Lecture Hours. 3 Lab Hours. COURSE OVERVIEW. Explores human osteological analysis, which provides fundamental skills for fields such as bioarchaeology, paleontology, biomechanics, human anatomy and forensic anthropology. Investigates the concepts and methods anthropologists employ to identify, describe and analyze skeletal remains from archaeological and forensic contexts. Trains students in the proper use of anatomical terminology and the respectful handling of human remains. Intensive hands-on activities develop and apply essential skills in identifying and siding core skeletal elements and teeth. Focuses on how the human skeleton functions, grows and changes throughout the lifespan. Addresses the possibilities and limitations of anthropological skeletal analysis and the ethical concerns inherent in modern osteological study. TOPICS AND THEMES. Studies skeletal and dental biology, including gross and microscopic bone and tooth structure. Analyses effects of ontogeny, development and age on the skeletal system. Estimates parameters such as sex, age, ancestry, stature, anomalies and pathologies of human skeletal remains using standardized anthropological methods. Considers pathological analysis, dietary reconstruction and comparison with faunal remains. Examines cultural, occupational and postmortem modifications, including taphonomy. Reviews methods used in initial assessment, inventory and recovery of remains. Prerequisites: ANTH 225 and ANTH 226 , or VIBS 305 ; junior or senior classification.