Page 169 - Manual for Activities directed at the Underwater Cultural Heritage

what constitutes archaeological qualification and competence is likely to include at least:
• A degree in archaeology or similar quali- fication recognized by the country in which the archaeologist is working;
• Practical experience in a chosen field/area of speciality;
• Demonstrated research abilities; and
• Knowledge of the specific type of site or
archaeological period being investigated.
Although there will be national and even local differences in definitions and minimum standards, what constitutes acceptable archaeological qualifica- tions and competence will in essence generally be, or should strive to be, underpinned by common ar- chaeological principles and ethics set out in the Rules.
Scientific competence
appropriate to the project
Being qualified does not mean that an individual archaeologist is necessarily competent for a par- ticular project. The person may be highly qualified, but a particular site or specific area of underwater investigation may be outside or beyond individual abilities.
In assessing proposals for an archaeological intervention or for the composition of a team, it is important to be aware that – as in any other discipline – stated qualifications and competences are not necessarily what they seem.
• Check qualifications and competences:
• Formal qualifications, such as degrees, diving and other licences are easily checked with the issuing institution;
• Competence profiles and ethics are indicated by membership of professional organizations whose profile and track-record can also easily be checked;
• Independent peer review is a further, powerful instrument; Professional organizations and the Non-Governmental Organization ICOMOS can assist in identifying suitable reviewers.
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Competence and qualifications