What term describes objects made or used by people in archaeological studies?

The term that describes objects made or used by people in archaeological studies is artifacts. Artifacts are tangible items that have been created, modified, or utilized by humans, such as tools, pottery, and ornaments. They provide insights into the cultural practices, technologies, and daily lives of past societies. By analyzing artifacts, archaeologists can reconstruct historical contexts, understand social structures, and learn about the behaviors of different communities.

Ecofacts, on the other hand, are natural items found in archaeological sites that provide information about the environment and human interaction with it, such as seeds, bones, and pollen. Features refer to non-portable remnants of human activity that can't be moved, such as walls or pits. Context relates to the spatial and temporal associations in which artifacts and features are found, which is crucial for understanding their significance. Thus, artifacts specifically point to the human-made objects integral to archaeological research.