2027 US(AZ): Artificial Intelligence for Archaeologists (3 Sessions)

Location: 527 S Beaver St, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA

Season: February 15, 2027 to December 17, 2027

Session Dates: Session I: Feb 15-19, 2027; Session II: Apr 19-23, 2027; Session III: Dec 13-17, 2027

Application Deadline: December 12, 2027

Deadline Type: Rolling

Website: https://anthroctr.org/program/2027-usaz-ai/

Discount for AIA members: None

Program Type:
Field School

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Anthropocene Research Center and Radiant Center for Remote Sensing at Northen Arizona University

Project Director:
Dr. Kayeleigh Sharp, RPA & Researcher in Radiant Center for Remote Sensing at Northen Arizona University

Project Description:

This course provides introductory training for archaeologists and cultural heritage professionals who are new to artificial intelligence (AI) and want to understand what machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and large language models (LLMs) are, how they are useful in archaeology, and how they may be used to enhance research, reporting and productivity. This program will also address how to use these emerging technologies responsibly. This intensive, one-week, in-person training session introduces participants to these technologies from the ground up.

No prior programming experience is required. Participants will explore the most common uses of ML in archaeology, including automated structure detection, artefact classification, geographic reasoning, predictive modelling, and textual analysis. Participants will train, run and evaluate simple models in guided workshops.

Participants will also learn how chatbots and other LLM-based tools generate and utilize text, why they “hallucinate” and how to fact-check their outputs against the archaeological record. Students will discuss what is at stake when these tools enter heritage decision-making, such as the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s initiative to use AI in Section 106 reviews and learn the basics of FAIR and CARE data principles. This course is designed for heritage management and archaeology professionals and students who wish to become informed, early adaptors but critical users of AI tools.

Period(s) of Occupation: All periods

Notes:
Tuition is $1,575; Earn 2 Semester Credit Units through our School of Record – Culver Stockton College

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: Full session

Minimum Age: 18 years old

Experience Required: None. This is a hands-on, experiential learning opportunity and students will learn how AI is applied to archaeological research under the direction of specialists in the field. No prior programming or machine learning experience is required. Students are required to come equipped with sufficient excitement and curiosity. The work requires patience, discipline, and attention to detail.

Room and Board Arrangements:
This program does not provide room and board. A list of off-campus accommodation will be provided during the online orientation. Several nearby restaurants within walking distance of NAU are available.

Academic Credit:
2 Semester Credit Units through our School of Record – Culver Stockton College