SOUTH AFRICAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL BULLETIN

Scope & Guideline

Fostering Academic Excellence in the Study of Human History.

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of SOUTH AFRICAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL BULLETIN with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0038-1969
PublisherSOUTH AFRICAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOC
Support Open AccessNo
CountrySouth Africa
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2002 to 2023
AbbreviationS AFR ARCHAEOL BULL / S. Afr. Archaeol. Bull.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPO BOX 15700, VLAEBERG 8018, SOUTH AFRICA

Aims and Scopes

The South African Archaeological Bulletin focuses on a wide array of archaeological research pertinent to Southern Africa, emphasizing the region's rich historical context and the methodologies employed to explore it. The journal serves as a platform for disseminating significant findings and theoretical advancements in archaeology, contributing to both local and international discussions on cultural heritage and human history.
  1. Cultural Heritage and Management:
    The journal emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage, exploring inclusive management approaches and the implications for archaeological sites and communities in Southern Africa.
  2. Paleoenvironmental Studies:
    Research often investigates past environments and their impact on human societies, employing methodologies such as palaeoecological analysis and dating techniques to understand ecological changes over time.
  3. Technological Innovations in Archaeology:
    There is a consistent focus on the application of new technologies, such as LiDAR and fluorescence microscopy, to enhance archaeological research and improve site detection and analysis.
  4. Historical and Contemporary Archaeology:
    The journal covers a range of topics from ancient to modern times, including studies on historical structures and the archaeological record of recent historical events, thereby linking past and present.
  5. Ethnoarchaeology and Indigenous Knowledge:
    The inclusion of indigenous perspectives and ethnoarchaeological studies highlights the role of traditional knowledge in understanding archaeological findings and cultural practices.
  6. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    The journal promotes interdisciplinary research, integrating perspectives from anthropology, history, and environmental science to provide a holistic understanding of archaeological contexts.
Recent publications in the South African Archaeological Bulletin reveal emerging themes that highlight current research priorities and evolving methodologies within the field. These trends reflect the journal's responsiveness to contemporary issues in archaeology and cultural heritage.
  1. Community Engagement and Inclusive Heritage:
    There is a growing emphasis on community involvement in archaeological research and heritage management, recognizing the importance of local knowledge and perspectives in shaping archaeological narratives.
  2. Decolonization of Archaeology:
    Recent discussions focus on decolonizing archaeological practices and interpretations, challenging traditional narratives and advocating for more diverse voices within the discipline.
  3. Environmental Change and Human Adaptation:
    Studies increasingly address how ancient human populations adapted to environmental changes, linking archaeological findings with contemporary concerns about climate change and sustainability.
  4. Interdisciplinary Research:
    An uptick in interdisciplinary approaches is evident, with collaborations across fields such as anthropology, environmental science, and history, enhancing the depth and breadth of archaeological interpretations.
  5. Technological Advancements in Fieldwork:
    Innovations in technologies, such as remote sensing and digital modeling, are increasingly featured, reflecting a trend towards integrating cutting-edge tools for site analysis and documentation.

Declining or Waning

While the South African Archaeological Bulletin continues to publish a diverse range of topics, certain themes have shown a decline in frequency or prominence in recent years. This may reflect shifts in research focus or the evolving interests of the archaeological community.
  1. Traditional Excavation Reports:
    There appears to be a waning interest in solely presenting excavation reports without broader contextual analysis. Researchers are increasingly integrating findings into larger theoretical frameworks rather than focusing on site-specific studies alone.
  2. Narrowly Defined Cultural Heritage Studies:
    Studies that concentrate exclusively on traditional aspects of cultural heritage without addressing contemporary issues or community engagement are becoming less common, signaling a shift towards more inclusive and dynamic approaches.
  3. Overly Technical Methodologies:
    Papers that focus heavily on technical methodologies without sufficient application to broader archaeological questions or cultural implications are declining, indicating a preference for research that balances technical rigor with contextual relevance.
  4. Limited Scope of Historical Analysis:
    There seems to be a reduction in publications that only cover narrow historical narratives without integrating broader socio-political contexts, reflecting a trend towards more comprehensive historical analyses.

Similar Journals

Cuadernos de Prehistoria y Arqueologia-Universidad Autonoma de Madrid

Connecting Researchers to the Rich Tapestry of History
Publisher: UNIV AUTONOMA MADRID, DEPT PRESHITORIA & ARQUEOLOGIAISSN: 0211-1608Frequency: 1 issue/year

Cuadernos de Prehistoria y Arqueologia-Universidad Autonoma de Madrid is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to the fields of archaeology and prehistory, published by the Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Departamento de Prehistoria y Arqueología. With an ISSN of 0211-1608, this journal plays a crucial role in disseminating significant research findings and theoretical advancements within these domains. Recognized for its scholarly excellence, it holds impressive quartile rankings in 2023, including Q2 in Archaeology and Q1 in History, reflecting its high impact within the academic community. While currently not an open-access publication, Cuadernos de Prehistoria y Arqueologia provides valuable insights to researchers, professionals, and students engaged in the exploration of human history and cultural heritage from 2018 to 2024 and beyond. With a commitment to fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, this journal serves as an essential platform for innovative studies and comprehensive reviews, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in archaeology and prehistory.

AUSTRALIAN ARCHAEOLOGY

Unearthing Australia’s Rich Heritage.
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0312-2417Frequency: 3 issues/year

AUSTRAILIAN ARCHAEOLOGY, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading academic journal dedicated to the field of archaeology. With a strong reputation as evidenced by its Q1 ranking in both the Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences categories, this journal fosters the growth and dissemination of pioneering research from diverse archaeological contexts. The journal has been a vital resource for scholars and practitioners since its convergence in 2002, supporting the collective advancement of knowledge in the archaeological discipline. By offering a platform for rigorous analysis and critical discussions, AUSTRAILIAN ARCHAEOLOGY appeals to a wide audience, from established researchers to students beginning their journey in archaeology. Although it is not an Open Access journal, the insights provided are invaluable for enhancing understanding and appreciation of Australia’s rich archaeological heritage. With a Scopus ranking that places it among the top contenders in its field, this journal continues to contribute significantly to outstanding archaeological scholarship and professional practice.

Bulgarsko e-Spisanie za Arkheologiya-Bulgarian e-Journal of Archaeology

Bridging past and present with open-access archaeological research.
Publisher: ASSOC BULGARIAN ARCHAEOLOGISTSISSN: 1314-5088Frequency: 2 issues/year

Bulgarsko e-Spisanie za Arkheologiya - Bulgarian e-Journal of Archaeology is a prominent open-access journal published by the ASSOC BULGARIAN ARCHAEOLOGISTS since 2011, serving as a vital platform for the dissemination of archaeological research and findings in Bulgaria and beyond. With the ISSN 1314-5088, this journal is dedicated to advancing knowledge in the field of archaeology, facilitating the sharing of innovative studies, fieldwork results, and theoretical discussions. It is particularly significant for researchers, professionals, and students who are interested in the archaeological heritage of Bulgaria, providing an accessible venue for high-quality scholarly contributions. The journal's commitment to open access ensures that its rich repository of knowledge is available to a global audience, enhancing collaboration and fostering new discoveries within the discipline.

California Archaeology

Connecting Scholars to California's Archaeological Treasures
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1947-461XFrequency: 2 issues/year

California Archaeology is a premier academic journal dedicated to the multifaceted study of archaeology within the context of California's rich historical and cultural landscape. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this journal conveys cutting-edge research from 2009 to 2024 and is recognized for its impact in the field, with a commendable Q2 ranking in both archaeology and arts and humanities as of 2023. Scholars and practitioners are encouraged to disseminate their findings and insights through this journal, contributing to a deeper understanding of archaeological practices and interpretations in California. With access options designed to enhance the visibility of research, California Archaeology serves as an essential resource for professionals, students, and researchers devoted to advancing knowledge in archaeology, making it a cornerstone of academic discourse in the discipline.

Journal of African Archaeology

Illuminating Africa's Cultural Evolution
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 1612-1651Frequency: 2 issues/year

Journal of African Archaeology is a premier academic publication dedicated to advancing the study of Africa's archaeological heritage. Published by BRILL, this journal offers a platform for innovative research and insights into the continent's rich historical narratives and cultural evolution. With a prestigious impact factor and distinguished rankings in multiple categories—including Q1 in Archaeology, Cultural Studies, and History—this journal is prolific in fostering scholarly discourse within the arts and humanities. The ISSN for print is 1612-1651 while the E-ISSN is 2191-5784, ensuring easy access to a diverse range of articles crafted by leading experts in the field. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find valuable and rigorously peer-reviewed content that further enhances their understanding of African archaeological practices and theories. The Journal of African Archaeology thus stands as a vital resource for anyone invested in exploring the complexities and intricacies of Africa's past.

Rossiiskaya Arkheologiya

Fostering Scholarly Dialogue in Archaeology
Publisher: IZDATELSTVO NAUKAISSN: 0869-6063Frequency: 4 issues/year

Rossiiskaya Arkheologiya, published by IZDATELSTVO NAUKA, stands as a leading academic journal in the field of archaeology and history, renowned for its commitment to advancing scholarly discourse and research in these vital humanities disciplines. With an impressive Impact Factor and a distinguished position as a Q1 journal in both archaeology and history for 2023, it ranks among the top tier of academic publications, reinforcing its reputation within the scientific community. The journal features a diverse array of studies focusing on archaeological methodologies, historical analyses, and cultural heritage, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers, professionals, and students alike. While access to its rich repository of insights is through a traditional subscription model, the journal’s contribution to the archaeological narrative not only elevates current research practices but also propels future inquiries within the Russian Federation and beyond. Addressing critical questions and dialogues within its scope from 2017 to 2023, Rossiiskaya Arkheologiya serves as an essential resource for anyone dedicated to exploring the complexities of human history through material culture.

ACTA ARCHAEOLOGICA

Bridging Cultures Through Archaeological Research
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 0065-101XFrequency: 1 issue/year

ACTA ARCHAEOLOGICA is a highly regarded, peer-reviewed journal published by BRILL, focusing on the dynamic field of archaeology. With an ISSN of 0065-101X and an E-ISSN of 1600-0390, this journal disseminates innovative research, critical analyses, and comprehensive reviews that contribute to our understanding of human history, cultural heritage, and archaeological methodology. ACTA ARCHAEOLOGICA has excelled in its field, achieving a Q1 ranking in both the Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences categories for 2023, showcasing its impact and relevance in scholarly discourse. Though not currently open access, the journal caters to a diverse audience of researchers, professionals, and students, offering invaluable insights into archaeological studies from a global perspective. As it continues to foster academic dialogue, ACTA ARCHAEOLOGICA remains a cornerstone for those looking to deepen their knowledge and engage with cutting-edge archaeological research.

Azania-Archaeological Research in Africa

Unearthing Africa's Rich Heritage.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0067-270XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Azania-Archaeological Research in Africa, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands as a premier academic resource in the field of archaeology, specifically focusing on African archaeological research. With a remarkable tradition dating back to 1966, the journal spans over half a century of rigorous scholarship, aiming to enrich our understanding of Africa's diverse cultural and historical narratives. Currently indexed in the prestigious Q1 category for both Archaeology and Arts and Humanities, it ranks impressively in the Scopus database, placing within the top 12% of journals in its field. This commitment to excellence facilitates the dissemination of innovative and insightful research, catering to a broad audience of researchers, professionals, and students alike. While the journal is not open access, its impactful contributions continue to shape contemporary archaeological discourse, making it an essential resource for anyone passionate about the study of Africa's archaeological heritage.

Kiva-Journal of Southwestern Anthropology and History

Advancing Knowledge in Anthropology and History
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0023-1940Frequency: 4 issues/year

Kiva - Journal of Southwestern Anthropology and History is a distinguished academic journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, that serves as a vital resource for scholars in the fields of anthropology, archaeology, and history. With an ISSN of 0023-1940 and an E-ISSN of 2051-6177, this journal has established itself as a significant avenue for scholarly communication since its inception in 1964. It consistently ranks in the top quartiles, including Q1 in Archaeology and Q2 in Anthropology, reflecting its high impact and rigorous peer-review process. Covering a wide array of topics pertinent to the Southwestern United States, Kiva invites original research articles, reviews, and methodological papers that advance understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage and historical narratives. While currently not open access, its commitment to disseminating quality research makes it an essential reading for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to explore the multifaceted dimensions of southwestern studies.

ARCHAEOLOGY

Decoding Cultures, One Artifact at a Time
Publisher: ARCHAEOLOGICAL INST AMERICAISSN: 0003-8113Frequency: 6 issues/year

ARCHAEOLOGY is a distinguished peer-reviewed journal published by the Archaeological Institute of America, focusing on the multifaceted aspects of archaeological research and its relevance to contemporary society. Established in 1966, this journal serves as a critical platform for scholarly discourse in the field, showcasing innovative findings, theoretical advancements, and methodological discussions related to archaeology. While it maintains a Q4 ranking within the disciplines of archaeology and arts and humanities, its contributions remain valuable for those engaging in archaeological studies or seeking to understand historical and cultural narratives. The journal is accessible in print, with an ISSN of 0003-8113 and an E-ISSN of 1943-5746, ensuring that a wide audience can benefit from its insights. Although currently not classified as Open Access, the meticulous peer-review process ensures a high standard of academic rigor, making it an essential source for researchers, professionals, and students alike who are dedicated to exploring the past through archaeological lenses.