Anthropologists and Archeologists
What are Anthropologists and Archeologists?
Anthropologists and archeologists are social scientists who study humanity, focusing on the intricacies of human behavior, culture, and development throughout history. Anthropologists explore contemporary and historical societies, examining social structures, languages, rituals, and beliefs to understand cultural variations and similarities among different human groups. They often conduct ethnographic research, immersing themselves in communities to gather qualitative data about social practices and interactions.
Archeologists, on the other hand, specialize in the study of past human societies through material remains and artifacts. They excavate sites to discover historical remnants, which can include tools, pottery, and structures. By analyzing these findings, archeologists reconstruct past lifestyles, economies, and social organizations. Their work often sheds light on human evolution, migration, and environmental changes over time, contributing to our understanding of how ancient societies functioned and adapted.
Both fields emphasize interdisciplinary methodologies, integrating insights from history, biology, linguistics, and even geography to form a holistic view of human existence. The work of anthropologists and archeologists is essential in helping create a narrative of human development, informing cultural heritage conservation, and addressing contemporary issues such as social inequality, cultural preservation, and the impacts of globalization.
Tasks
- Collect information and make judgments through observation, interviews, and review of documents.
- Teach or mentor undergraduate and graduate students in anthropology or archeology.
- Write about and present research findings for a variety of specialized and general audiences.
- Plan and direct research to characterize and compare the economic, demographic, health care, social, political, linguistic, and religious institutions of distinct cultural groups, communities, and organizations.
- Create data records for use in describing and analyzing social patterns and processes, using photography, videography, and audio recordings.
Technology Skills
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Analytical or scientific software
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- SAS
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- Wolfram Research Mathematica
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Geographic information system
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- ESRI ArcInfo
- Geographic information system GIS software
- Geographic information system GIS systems
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Graphics or photo imaging software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- GE Healthcare ImageQuant TL
- Graphics software
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Data base user interface and query software
- Archeological Sites Management Information System ASMIS
- Genealogy software
- Microsoft Access
- Structured query language SQL
Tools Used
- Calipers
- Scanners
- X ray radiography examination equipment
- Laboratory sifting equipment
- Trowels
Knowledge
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Sociology and Anthropology
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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History and Archeology
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
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Foreign Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
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Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Skills
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Abilities
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Doctoral degree
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Master's degree
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Bachelor's degree
Work Activities
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Detailed Work Activities
- Collect information from people through observation, interviews, or surveys.
- Instruct college students in social sciences or humanities disciplines.
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
- Direct scientific activities.
- Plan social sciences research.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$43770.0 - $102150.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.