Exploring Finnish and English Historical and Archaeological Datasets through Spatial Analysis

Eljas Oksanen (University of Helsinki)

The use of Geographic Information Systems and other formal methods of spatial analysis has a long history in archaeological/historical research, although they are not – perhaps surprisingly given that the spatial component is inherent in much of the evidence – as well established in these disciplines as one might expect.

This short presentation will showcase some uses of GIS in archaeological research with examples from public-generated data. But it will also discuss common pitfalls in understanding the characteristics of the data. Datasets must be considered as created objects, and understanding their cultural, institutional and indeed personal histories is critical for conducting meaningful research.

Aalto HELDIG DH pizza seminar on Friday 4 December 2020 at 12.00 (Zoom)