Achievement

IPEM trainees Jenkins and Malakie completed their group project by creating several computational models to investigate the relative costs and benefits associated with creating and adopting new technological innovations. This project incorporated both broad focal areas of the IPEM program--phylogenetics/cultural transmission, and analysis of cooperation--and used a range of methods from population genetics to social network analyses that crosscut traditional disciplinary boundaries. In addition to providing the opportunity to gain experience working as a team, the project was a good initial step for Julie’s intended future research into the processes contributing to the periods of rapid technological change evident in the archaeological record, and the more specific goal of testing Fitzhugh’s (2001) risk and innovation model in a quantitative framework. The trainees presented their work together at the final IPEM Seminar in the fall semester 2011 at WSU.