Digital Archaeology: AI and the Preservation of the Past
Explore how AI and digital tools are reshaping archaeology and heritage. Reflect on the ethics, power and promise of preserving the past in a data-driven world. Discuss why heritage still matters.
Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
This 4-session course explores how artificial intelligence and digital tools are transforming the ways we preserve, reconstruct and engage with cultural heritage. Through case studies, critical readings and philosophical reflection, we will examine the promises and pitfalls of digital archaeology from virtual reconstructions to algorithmic curation and consider what it means to protect the past in an age of data saturation and technological acceleration.
What will we cover?
• Key concepts in digital archaeology and virtual heritage
• How AI is used in cultural heritage preservation and reconstruction
• Ethical and philosophical questions around authenticity, access and ownership
• The role of digital tools in shaping memory, identity and inclusion
• Critical perspectives on exclusion, bias and power in heritage technologies
• Reflections on heritage as an anchor in turbulent digital times
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Understand how AI and digital tools are applied in archaeology and heritage
• Critically assess the ethical and philosophical implications of digital preservation
• Reflect on the role of heritage in shaping identity and collective memory
• Engage with current debates around digital authenticity, access and exclusion
• Explore how digital heritage intersects with broader questions of trust, power and responsibility
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable for anyone with an interest in heritage, technology, or cultural studies. No prior knowledge of archaeology or AI is required.. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. An ability and willingness to explore relevant shared resources will increase what you get out of the course.
However, as with most of our history, politics and current affairs courses, an open mind and a respectful willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.
Given the sensitive nature of some of the topics the course will explore, we also expect everyone to engage group and class discussions with respect and the willingness to learn from others.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
This is a discussion-based study day combining short presentations, group activities, and reflective exercises. You may be encouraged to read selected texts or explore digital heritage examples online.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no additional costs. You may wish to bring a notebook or device for note-taking and reflection.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
HPC244 Neurodiversity and the Future of Work: A Policy Perspective
HPC241 AI, Power and Politics: Who Controls the Future?
HPC195 Neurodiversity and the Future of Work: A Policy Perspective
Vina Theodorakopoulou is a passionate advocate at the intersection of technology, business and society. With a rich background including a PhD in behavioural economics and over 25 years in financial and professional services, she wears many hats: social entrepreneur, podcaster, multilingual educator and dedicated teacher at CityLit. Vina believes in shaping today’s workplace while paving the way for tomorrow’s. Her active allyship for accessible digital skills, financial literacy and lifelong learning fosters belonging and fuels collective progress. At CityLit, she teaches a range of thought-provoking subjects including Ethics in AI, Philosophy & Societal Purpose, History of Global Capitalism, Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies, Sustainability, as well as Modern Languages, encouraging learners to embrace communication as a tool for empowerment and cross-cultural connection. Beyond the classroom, Vina writes thought leadership articles exploring neurodiversity, the future of work, and the strength of individual purpose. In her spare time, she teaches dance and coaches Kids First rugby, embodying a values-driven life of polymathy, energy and community.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/digital-archaeology-ai-and-the-preservation-of-the-past2979869Digital Archaeology: AI and the Preservation of the Pasthttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/https://www.citylit.ac.uk/static/version1765367640/frontend/WilliamsCommerce/citylit/en_GB/Magento_Catalog/images/product/placeholder/image.jpg129129GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/Courses/vm/Issues Facing Our World/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/History/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/History/Histories, memories & heritage2285117717001178190712285165311771178<p>Explore how AI and digital tools are reshaping archaeology and heritage. Reflect on the ethics, power and promise of preserving the past in a data-driven world. Discuss why heritage still matters.</p>002980112Digital Archaeology: AI and the Preservation of the Past129129https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/no_selectionInStockEveningWedOnlineAvailable courses1 to 4 weeksWeekday2026-03-04T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experience, Advanced, Suitable for allMar 2026Culture, history & humanitiesHPC231129129Digital Archaeology: AI and the Preservation of the Past12984129Vina Theodorakopouloudigital-archaeology-ai-and-the-preservation-of-the-past/hpc231-2526<p>Explore how AI and digital tools are reshaping archaeology and heritage. Reflect on the ethics, power and promise of preserving the past in a data-driven world. Discuss why heritage still matters.</p>0000-Available|2026-03-04 00:00:00<p>This 4-session course explores how artificial intelligence and digital tools are transforming the ways we preserve, reconstruct and engage with cultural heritage. Through case studies, critical readings and philosophical reflection, we will examine the promises and pitfalls of digital archaeology from virtual reconstructions to algorithmic curation and consider what it means to protect the past in an age of data saturation and technological acceleration.</p><p>Explore how AI and digital tools are reshaping archaeology and heritage. Reflect on the ethics, power and promise of preserving the past in a data-driven world. Discuss why heritage still matters.</p><p>• Key concepts in digital archaeology and virtual heritage</p><p>• How AI is used in cultural heritage preservation and reconstruction</p><p>• Ethical and philosophical questions around authenticity, access and ownership</p><p>• The role of digital tools in shaping memory, identity and inclusion</p><p>• Critical perspectives on exclusion, bias and power in heritage technologies</p><p>• Reflections on heritage as an anchor in turbulent digital times</p><p>• Understand how AI and digital tools are applied in archaeology and heritage</p><p>• Critically assess the ethical and philosophical implications of digital preservation</p><p>• Reflect on the role of heritage in shaping identity and collective memory</p><p>• Engage with current debates around digital authenticity, access and exclusion</p><p>• Explore how digital heritage intersects with broader questions of trust, power and responsibility</p><p text-align:justify="">This course is suitable for anyone with an interest in heritage, technology, or cultural studies. No prior knowledge of archaeology or AI is required.. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. An ability and willingness to explore relevant shared resources will increase what you get out of the course.</p><p text-align:justify="">However, as with most of our history, politics and current affairs courses, an open mind and a respectful willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills. </p><p text-align:justify="">Given the sensitive nature of some of the topics the course will explore, we also expect everyone to engage group and class discussions with respect and the willingness to learn from others.</p><p>This is a discussion-based study day combining short presentations, group activities, and reflective exercises. You may be encouraged to read selected texts or explore digital heritage examples online.</p><p>There are no additional costs. You may wish to bring a notebook or device for note-taking and reflection.</p><ul><li>HPC244 Neurodiversity and the Future of Work: A Policy Perspective</li><li>HPC241 AI, Power and Politics: Who Controls the Future?</li><li>HPC195 Neurodiversity and the Future of Work: A Policy Perspective</li><li>HPC242 Creating a sustainable tomorrow</li></ul>HistoryHistories, memories & heritagevirtual12912984HPC231NONEWed04/03/26 - 25/03/2619:30 - 21:3019:3021:304 sessions (over 4 weeks)41 to 4 weeksWeekdayOnlineOnlineVina TheodorakopoulouBeginners, Some experience, Advanced, Suitable for allAvailable courses2026-03-04T00:00:00+00:00EveningMar 2026Culture, history & humanities129129Digital Archaeology: AI and the Preservation of the Pastdigital-archaeology-ai-and-the-preservation-of-the-past/hpc231-2526<p>Explore how AI and digital tools are reshaping archaeology and heritage. Reflect on the ethics, power and promise of preserving the past in a data-driven world. Discuss why heritage still matters.</p>0000-Available|2026-03-04 00:00:00<p>This 4-session course explores how artificial intelligence and digital tools are transforming the ways we preserve, reconstruct and engage with cultural heritage. Through case studies, critical readings and philosophical reflection, we will examine the promises and pitfalls of digital archaeology from virtual reconstructions to algorithmic curation and consider what it means to protect the past in an age of data saturation and technological acceleration.</p><p>Explore how AI and digital tools are reshaping archaeology and heritage. Reflect on the ethics, power and promise of preserving the past in a data-driven world. Discuss why heritage still matters.</p><p>• Key concepts in digital archaeology and virtual heritage</p><p>• How AI is used in cultural heritage preservation and reconstruction</p><p>• Ethical and philosophical questions around authenticity, access and ownership</p><p>• The role of digital tools in shaping memory, identity and inclusion</p><p>• Critical perspectives on exclusion, bias and power in heritage technologies</p><p>• Reflections on heritage as an anchor in turbulent digital times</p><p>• Understand how AI and digital tools are applied in archaeology and heritage</p><p>• Critically assess the ethical and philosophical implications of digital preservation</p><p>• Reflect on the role of heritage in shaping identity and collective memory</p><p>• Engage with current debates around digital authenticity, access and exclusion</p><p>• Explore how digital heritage intersects with broader questions of trust, power and responsibility</p><p text-align:justify="">This course is suitable for anyone with an interest in heritage, technology, or cultural studies. No prior knowledge of archaeology or AI is required.. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. An ability and willingness to explore relevant shared resources will increase what you get out of the course.</p><p text-align:justify="">However, as with most of our history, politics and current affairs courses, an open mind and a respectful willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills. </p><p text-align:justify="">Given the sensitive nature of some of the topics the course will explore, we also expect everyone to engage group and class discussions with respect and the willingness to learn from others.</p><p>This is a discussion-based study day combining short presentations, group activities, and reflective exercises. You may be encouraged to read selected texts or explore digital heritage examples online.</p><p>There are no additional costs. You may wish to bring a notebook or device for note-taking and reflection.</p><ul><li>HPC244 Neurodiversity and the Future of Work: A Policy Perspective</li><li>HPC241 AI, Power and Politics: Who Controls the Future?</li><li>HPC195 Neurodiversity and the Future of Work: A Policy Perspective</li><li>HPC242 Creating a sustainable tomorrow</li></ul>HistoryHistories, memories & heritageconfigurable
19071178Histories, memories & heritagehttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/humanities/history/further-historical-studies1/2/285/1177/1178/19071/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/History/Histories, memories & heritage
