Apprenticeship in Early Neolithic Societies: The Transmission of Technological Knowledge at the Flint Mine of Casa Montero (Madrid, Spain), ca. 5300–5200 cal BC

This research demonstrates that activities related to teaching stone knapping took place in the Early Neolithic flint mine at Casa Montero (Spain). Raw material sources are shown to be the ideal places for research and analysis of the transmission of technical knowledge. This study is based on the analysis of abandoned cores at the site. The methodology and criteria that were utilized to identify lithic debris resulting from apprentice workmanship are described. Identification of errors in selection and execution has enabled a classification of cores according to distinctions in flint knapping ability: expert, advanced, and novice. A premature abandonment of a core is associated with novice workmanship. Themethod of knowledge transfer of lithic technology is also discussed, proposing an instructional systemthat may have been used in this early agricultural society. This research suggests a progressive inclusion of youth into the social system by means of technological and social learning in context.