WHAT IS THE ORAL HISTORY PROJECT?
Historians constantly debate how much of a difference the individual does or does not make in the course of an event. Regardless of which side one takes in this philosophical battle, no one can argue that the actions of individuals play a role in the larger picture on the canvas of history. As a society, we have an obligation to try and to preserve our history and perhaps to uncover new history. The mission of The Oral History Project is to gather the personal histories of individuals from all walks of life in order to preserve their contributions to the larger picture. The Oral History Project archives oral and/or video histories at ARGS and they are available to scholars and researchers.
Students are put through an intense curriculum designed to prepare them not only to be successful interviewers, but also to be compassionate and intuitive to the needs of the person being interviewed. The interdisciplinary skills learned in the class and in the field help to prepare students for many different careers. Literary arts students gain valuable experience in writing and in background sourcing. Visual art students produce sculptures, paintings, and drawings, which reflect the experiences of those being interviewed. Film and photography students gain field experience and history students gain valuable historical knowledge to further their research as well as a practical understanding of archive management. Students also gain community service hours for a variety of programs.
Although students, scholars, and society as a whole benefit from this project, those who are sharing their knowledge and history benefit as well. They have the satisfaction of knowing their contribution to the larger picture is preserved so that others may discover and learn.
Here is what our students can provide for you at no charge:
Customized topics and questions. You decide on what you want to talk about in the pre-interview.
Audio and/or video interview. Our digital recordings and transcripts can be sent via email, saved to a USB, data CD, or DVD (for video).
Digital copying of old photographs. We will scan your photos to a USB, data CD for sharing.
8mm film transfer to DVD. We can switch your film to a digital file on USB or DVD!