Oral history is a growing area in the archival world and this two-week journey is just the thing to be prepared. The class, typically run by the great Dr. Phil Mason, provides incredibly practical insight into everything involved with oral history. Some of the topics covered are:

• Art of conducting an effective interview, including doing research so one can craft relevent questions that will spawn quality answers
• Importance of finding a proper home for the oral history
• Making sure you are covered legally through releases
• Understanding the ethics involved in conducting an oral history project
• Starting a larger oral history project, including finding funding and interviewees
• What equipment to use and also what equipment you may not have thought about

There are two main parts of the class which determine your grade: a lone essay exam and a final project in which the student carries out an oral history. This includes an interview, transcripts and an experience paper. NOTICE: Transcribing is a long, tedious process. You can do it yourself, but others have opted to hire transcribers. More details on this in class.