Data Collection in Zooarchaeology: Incorporating Touch-Screen, Speech-Recognition, Barcodes, and GIS

Abstract

Barcode labels, alongside legible text, enable a rapid and accurate printing and recording of excavation IDs. The cost of the label paper and scanner is easily offset by the time and errors an analyst can save by making this change. Integrating this coded information to a spatial representation of anatomical elements (a simple GIS), it is possible to design a data entry system where analysts can click or touch an anatomical zone or landmark, rather than memorizing codes. Touch-screen or speech-recognition enabled databases are simple to design through the use of buttons, which prompt users for information and answer questions. The change from pressing "g" for goat to touching a labeled illustrated button, or speaking aloud its caption, can increase efficiency and reduce a significant amount of error. Speechrecognition allows for hands-free recording and an investigator to remain focused on the material. None of these methods are innovative but the combination creates a synergetic data entry system with a wide range of potential use in various field and lab settings. However, it should be noted that, while the digital recording methods described below will reduce human errors, they will not entirely eliminate all forms of careless mistakes, nor the incorrect use of basic zooarchaeological methods. IntroductionModern technology commonly facilitates the process of archaeological data collection, especially on large datasets with thousands of entries. While research teams generally recognize the need for well-crafted, rigorous project-wide databases, too frequently individual researchers persist in using low-tech solutions (paper and pencil, train-of-thought word processing documents, or disorganized spreadsheets) for large datasets.Zooarchaeological data recording is an essential, but time-consuming and tedious process. Detailing the attributes of an individual bone specimen -and all its potential value for interpretation -into database format requires utilizing many arbitrary codes or IDs representing excavation context, taxonomic status, anatomical location, tooth-wear stage, etc. (Driver 1992;Gifford and Crader 1977; Kansa 2013, 2014). The potential for transcription errors can be high, especially among zooarchaeological assemblages where analysts are working under budgetary and time constraints, or in challenging field settings. A variety of new digital approaches for data collection offer high potential for a dramatic improvement in efficiency in the lab as well as a substantial reduction in the potential for data-recording error that is inherent in conventional lab practices. Data Collection in

TIPZOO: a Touchscreen Interface for Palaeolithic Zooarchaeology. Towards making data entry and analysis easier, faster, and more reliable

“…(e.g. Watson, 1979;Dobney and Rielly, 1988;Marean et al, 2001;Harland et al, 2003;Popkin, 2005;Thompson, 2005;Fischer, 2007;Smith, 2010;Abe et al, 2012;Dibble, 2015;Garcia-Moreno et al, 2015;Morin et al, 2017Morin et al, , 2019. TIPZOO differs from previous attempts, however, by proposing a comprehensive solution that accompanies researchers through data entry, analysis, and visualization, as well as by using a touchscreen interface that was specifically designed to facilitate and accelerate data entry in Palaeolithic zooarchaeology.…”

TIPZOO: a Touchscreen Interface for Palaeolithic Zooarchaeology. Towards making data entry and analysis easier, faster, and more reliable

“…(e.g. Watson, 1979;Dobney and Rielly, 1988;Marean et al, 2001;Harland et al, 2003;Popkin, 2005;Thompson, 2005;Fischer, 2007;Smith, 2010;Abe et al, 2012;Dibble, 2015;Garcia-Moreno et al, 2015;Morin et al, 2017Morin et al, , 2019. TIPZOO differs from previous attempts, however, by proposing a comprehensive solution that accompanies researchers through data entry, analysis, and visualization, as well as by using a touchscreen interface that was specifically designed to facilitate and accelerate data entry in Palaeolithic zooarchaeology.…”

Archaeological Analysis in the Information Age: Guidelines for Maximizing the Reach, Comprehensiveness, and Longevity of Data

“…Do not limit your data sharing to modes optimized for presentation (such as PDFs or images of figures). Even full data tables provided on paper (or the digital analogue of paper) are of limited use because reusers often must transcribe them (particularly in the case of printed material), wasting time and making errors along the way (Dibble 2015). Provide data in open and common formats convenient to use with spreadsheets, databases, and other software. Provide archaeological context .…”