Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

College

Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary

Program

Biblical and/or Ancient Near Eastern Archaeology, PhD

First Advisor

Randall W. Younker

Second Advisor

Paul Z. Gregor

Third Advisor

Paul J. Ray

Abstract

Problem

This dissertation examines the evolving role of digital technologies in archaeological research, focusing on the management and interpretation of extensive digital datasets generated by modern excavations. Drawing on six years of comprehensive fieldwork at San Miceli, Sicily, this study critically evaluates and updates the established four-field methodology proposed by Levy et al. (2012), encompassing acquisition, analysis, dissemination, and curation. While traditional archaeological documentation methods rely heavily on analog techniques, these approaches increasingly fall short due to the rapid expansion and complexity of digital data.

Method

To address this gap, the dissertation refines and expands the current methodological framework by incorporating contemporary innovations, including iterative workflows, artificial intelligence, and collaborative digital platforms. A detailed examination of practical applications at San Miceli demonstrates that the enhanced model substantially improves the efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility of data, while also supporting effective long-term preservation. Furthermore, the inclusion of iterative and collaborative practices within the refined framework promotes greater adaptability and responsiveness to emerging discoveries and methodological advancements.

Results and Conclusions

Ultimately, this research contributes an updated and scalable methodological model designed to meet the practical demands and theoretical challenges posed by digital archaeological data. By integrating cutting-edge digital tools and practices into traditional archaeological workflows, the dissertation establishes a robust foundation for managing big data in archaeology, ensuring meaningful preservation and interpretation for future research.

Subject Area

Sicily (Italy)--Antiquities; San Miceli (Italy)--Antiquities; Archaeology; Computers; Computer systems; Digitization

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