A First Step into the World of Archaeology: Field Practice for Future Teachers

In 2023, within the framework of a cooperation memorandum signed between Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University and the A.Kh. Margulan Institute of Archaeology, first-year students of the Faculty of History and Law are undergoing a summer archaeological field practice at the Besmoinak archaeological complex located in the Zhambyl district of Almaty region. The fieldwork is supervised by PhD senior lecturer, archaeologist Asemgul Daurenkyzy Kasenova and Candidate of Historical Sciences, Associate Professor Daulet Kusainuly Abenov.

This year`s archaeological season was organized at a high level. The university administration fully provided students with tents, specialized archaeological tools, essential living necessities, and safety equipment. These conditions offered young professionals a valuable opportunity to enhance their professional skills by working in a real scientific environment.

During the two-week archaeological field expedition, students actively participated in the excavation of ancient burial sites and the unearthing of historical artifacts from ancient times alongside professional archaeologists. For them, this was not only an academic internship but also an important stage that fostered a deep connection to national history and a special interest in historical consciousness and cultural heritage.

As part of the practice, a traditional "Initiation into Archaeologists" ceremony was held for the students. In a solemn atmosphere, the future specialists took an oath, passed through various challenges and games in the format of an archaeological quest, and officially took their first steps into the world of archaeology. This event positively influenced their professional and spiritual development.

Throughout the fieldwork, students combined the theoretical knowledge they had acquired during their first year of studying archaeology with practical experience, mastering scientific methods of researching historical and cultural monuments. This experience holds special value for future history teachers. Now they will be able to convey Kazakhstan`s ancient history to school students not only through textbooks but also through real artifacts they have unearthed with their own hands.

The archaeological practice in Besmoinak represents a convergence of knowledge and experience, science and spirituality, past and future. Such initiatives revive the historical consciousness of our nation and nurture young generations to treat cultural heritage with respect. And the young specialists who have honed their skills in such environments will become reliable educators capable of delivering national history to future generations with quality and passion.