Recording Methods Redesigned: Comparison of Recording Methods and Resultant Archaeological Interpretations Using Single Context Pre-Boreal Case Studies from Blekinge, Sweden

Sammanfattning: This thesis aims to explore how specific digital field recording methods impact archaeological interpretation based on the case studies presented. Individual find recording, a more specialized digital point proveniencing system, was used in both case studies. The original excavation interpretations are compared against new interpretations based on the reconstructed excavation unit style recording to reveal the difference in interpretation based on methodology. Additional research goals of the thesis include: identifying under what specific conditions the individual find recording method is best suited and the impact of methodology on archaeological interpretation. Two case studies will be provided that both utilize this method for the recording of flint finds. These datasets are redesigned, applying an artificial grid over the spatial distribution of individual finds for reinterpretation. The dataset is then reanalyzed by measures of density and frequency. The findings of the redesigned excavation are compared against the original findings in an attempt to identify best practices in specific cases. Throughout the thesis there is an emphasis on the methodological value of forethought in excavation design and the thesis conclusion is meant to serve as a summation of these values.