Differences between popular media and peer-reviewed publications

  Popular media articles can exploit the sensationalism and cache of fantastic archaeological discoveries or findings and are often the only insight the public gets into archaeological research and practices. This assignment challenges you to review a popular media article and assess how well journalists can convey archaeological findings and concepts. By completing this assignment students will: • Summarize an archaeological discovery that has made the news • Find and summarize peer-reviewed articles that help evaluate the popular media article’s content • Identify the differences between popular media and peer-reviewed publications • Discuss the efficacy and role of popular media articles You must evaluate the popular media/news article you selected during the proposal process. In an essay of 1250-1500 words, you must assess the following: • What are the implications of the find/discovery/interpretation discussed? • How well did the article present the archaeological theory and methods used? • How well did article present alternative perspectives/ evaluate any relevant debates? To evaluate your popular media article, you must consult 2-5 peer reviewed papers on the top