Our field research and training is in collaboration with Dr. Carl Lipo (open webpage) at California State University at Long Beach.

The first week of the field school will include an intensive orientation on Rapa Nui. Students will be trained in archaeological survey, excavation methods, other special skills, and some museum procedures. Field research will be conducted on prehistoric habitations and other sites in the island's southeastern region, and possibly other locations. Field school students will conduct archaeological field survey, detailed mapping, and small-scale excavations of archaeological sites. We will work directly with Native Rapanui students and other members of the Native community. We will also work with staff from the P. Sebastian Englert Museum of Anthropology on the island.

A vast amount of previous archaeological research by Chilean and international scientists on the island illustrates the richness and complexity of the prehistoric, historic, and palaeo-environmental record on this fascinating, anthropologically-significant, yet often widely misunderstood island. As part of the field school, we will have a lecture series on Pacific archaeology, field research design, Rapa Nui prehistory, the evolution of cultural elaboration, and environmental change.

QUALIFICATIONS
No previous archaeological courses or field experience are necessary, although we will consider some qualifications in selecting students. These include:

1) completion of some course work in archaeology or anthropology;
2) academic excellence (as indicated by grades and letter of recommendation);
3) strong motivation, positive attitude, adaptability, and ability to work well with others (as indicated by your statement and the letter of recommendation); and
4) other qualifications being equal, we will give some weight to students with an ability to speak Spanish and/or a Polynesian language (indicated in part by advanced course work or one's native language). This is a desirable, but not a necessary qualification.

WEATHER
Winter (June-August) conditions on Rapa Nui are cool and rain showers can be sudden, frequent, and intense. However, the weather can also be "perfect" with sunshine and temperatures in the 70s. Low temperatures can typically range from lows in the 50s (degrees F), with highs in the mid- 60s, but the "wind-chill" at times makes it seem much colder, so plan for appropriate gear and clothing. Students must bring hiking boots (i.e., protective shoes with good ankle support). Other personal items should include a hat, sunglasses, and a day-pack. A poncho or jacket for wind and rain will be necessary on most days. Sweaters and jackets are often necessary.

EXTRAS
Other necessities students should bring include all personal supplies and prescriptions. We will have little, if any access to regular shopping, etc., while on the island. Keep in mind things such as backup contact lenses or a second pair of glasses. In terms of medical needs, we strongly recommend sunscreen, a good antibacterial soap, personal first aid supplies, and a non-prescription anti-diarrhea drug. Students must check with their physician and be current on all standard vaccinations, particularly tetanus. Ask your doctor about getting a course of broad-spectrum antibiotics to use in the event of bacterial infections, such as respiratory problems from a cold or flu. Be sure to talk with your doctor about other precautions for your health in an isolated location with limited medical facilities.

CULTURE
Rapa Nui is a small, traditional society. Consequently, students must keep to rules of proper conduct in mind at all times and plan their visit accordingly. We will ask all participants to sign a code of conduct appropriate to local laws, customs, and the University of Hawai`i code of student conduct.