Credits: 3 credits

Prerequisite(s): None

Rationale for inclusion in curriculum

Oral history is a useful method of collecting data to complement written knowledge. With the use of video, tape recorders, and digital recorders, the spoken word can be preserved and provide an additional form of primary documentation. This is especially important among communities historically omitted from the historic record.  Oral history recordings are an accepted feature of library and archival collections that require unique skill in conducting.  Administration, preservation, and access of this material is crucial to the on-going stability of the resource.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

1. Apply background knowledge of proposed interviews through research.
2. Prepare fair and relevant questions during a formal oral history.
3. Establish rapport and show sensitivity to factors affecting the taping process such as advanced age of the interviewee, health handicaps, underrepresentation, etc. 
4. Design interviews and prepare for interruptions.
5. Identify interviewer biases and distinguish between "closed" and "open" questions.
6. Collect "clues" on dating of events.
7. Organize types of memorabilia used to enhance an interview.
8. Be aware of the advantages and limitations of oral history as a source in social science research.
9. Understand the proper way to process and provide access to oral history sources in a library or archival institution.
10. Examine the technology associated with oral history creation and access.

Content

• Interviewing procedures.
• Special problems: What to do about preserving accuracy and avoiding elaboration/fantasy.
• Continued cooperation of the interviewee; ability to expand basic interview design.
• Familiarity with technical problems in the use of oral history technology.
• Legal and ethical considerations of oral history.
• Transcribing and editing oral history.
• Developing, operating, and funding oral history programs.
• Arranging and describing oral history collections.

Course methodology

Discussions, lectures, analyzing oral history sources, conducting interviews.

Bases for evaluation of student performance

1. Participation
2. Written assignments
3. Oral history interview including preparation, interview, and transcription.

Text: Professional and Scholarly Resources

Updates: 4/2024