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It's 7:00 a.m.

The sun is up and you are getting ready for your day at the "dig" at UNB. You quickly grab your gear and head for ‘class’. You’re eager to get started on the day’s activities with the other students under the expertise of UNB instructors; eager to see what other mysteries lay in wait under the dirt, in the lab, or in the field; eager to learn from the Elders.

Maybe today you’ll unearth the remnants of a clay pot that provides a glimpse into our past. Or, perhaps through mentoring and collaborative experiments, you'll explore the use of ancient technologies. When it comes to archaeology, anything is possible.

Archaeology is a gateway to our past. It's a discipline that complements history and yet, with one seemingly minor discovery, it can turn everything we know upside down.

Starting July 2, 2013, the University of New Brunswick's faculty of arts, department of anthropology, in partnership with the College of Extended Learning (CEL) will be offering a four-week Archaeology Summer Camp. The unique program is open to undergraduate students at all levels, those entering their first year of university, as well as adult learners who have a passion for learning about archaeology. You can earn six credit hours toward your academic program or take as general interest.

"By looking at objects people leave behind," said Susan Blair, associate professor at UNB and advisor for the archaeology summer camp, "we’re able to see how people lived thousands of years ago. This, in turn, helps us learn more about who we are today."

The camp will use cutting-edge teaching and learning methods to give students the knowledge and tools they need to learn about archaeology. Divided into two 2-week sessions, the camp is designed to encourage collaboration, teamwork, mentoring and research.

Students will also get to practice advanced excavation techniques on the UNB campus and piece together an understanding of how past activities create patterning and traces in the ground. These hands-on experiences are complemented by field trips, laboratory visits, and presentations.

"Allowing students to study archaeology in a hands-on environment is a critical component of this camp," said Dr. Blair. "It helps clarify the material covered in the classroom, provides enjoyment, and enhances the overall learning experience."

To foster a deeper understanding of the relationship between communities and research, Elders from Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik communities will act as mentors, telling stories and teaching traditional ways. Some of these lessons include setting up wigwams, cooking food over campfires, making baskets, and more.

Don't miss your opportunity to explore and develop your skills and knowledge of archaeology. For more information about the camp, contact Dr. Sue Blair. To register contact UNB College of Extended Learning directly at 506 451-6824, celarch@unb.ca.

For media interview requests, contact Belinda Elliott-Beilecki.