To set the tone for the robotics club’s FIRST Lego League Challenge at the Middle School, themed the Unearthed Innovation Project, members learned to think more like an archeologist thanks to a visit with Brookhaven National Laboratory archeologist Dr. Allison McGovern on Dec. 4.  

Dr. McGovern, who works in the cultural resource manager in the environmental protection division, introduced the students to the field and learned about various components, methods, legalities and tools utilized by professional archeologists, as well as about some Long Island sites that were examined and preserved. As an archeologist, Dr. McGovern specializes in uncovering and preserving the stories buried in Long Island's past. She combines archaeology, history, and community engagement to protect important cultural sites and bring overlooked narratives to light.   

“It is a misconception that archeology is just about digging in ancient sites,” Dr. McGovern said. “Archeology is about how humans lived in the past.” 

The students explored tools acquired during local digs and were briefed on important archeology terms and how archeological sites are formed using vertical and horizontal excavation. Dr. McGovern also cautioned that archeology is a destructive and expensive process, and that preservation is often a cheaper and more sustainable option.  

Not only did the students receive a valuable education about the archeological process, but Dr. McGovern’s presentation also illuminated some of the tasks behind the underlying theme of this season’s competition. The team also participated in a practice tournament, held on Dec. 13 in Bethpage.