One of the primary educational missions of Grinnell's Anthropology Department is to teach students scientific method and research skills. Two archaeology courses with a full 3-hour weekly lab in addition to regular lectures and discussion have been developed to provide students with the opportunity to conduct experiments and do individual and collaborative research. In addition, independent study is offered to advanced students. In this project, the department will enhance the available laboratory equipment through the addition of stereo-microscopes and attachments, hot plates, thermocouple thermometers, a scale, digital calipers, and miscellaneous glassware. This equipment will broaden the types of research that students will be able to undertake. For example, it will allow them to conduct experiments in use-wear and ceramic materials analysis.
