Ethnic Studies Oral History Field Research

Students will work over the course of five weekends during Spring Semester with Professors and Graduate research students from Cal Poly State University’s Ethnic Studies Department to conduct a long term research project to collect oral histories from minority ethnic populations in northern San Luis Obispo County. Students will be trained in social science research protocols, oral history techniques and the use of digital recording equipment. Students will work alongside Cal Poly graduate students to conduct oral histories and catalog and document their interviews. Students will conduct the field research over the course of a semester under the supervision of PRHS teachers.

Field Studies Collaborative Application

Current Project: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Project at PRHS

Overt and subtle experiences of racism and discrimination are a damaging reality for the mental wellbeing of adolescents  and adults alike. These experiences can hinder the strength and unity of a community. This Field Studies project centers on assisting Dr. Susana Lopez and her research exploring the experiences of student racism and microaggressions in schools. Over the past year, teacher and student participants have been recruited from Paso Robles High School to share experiences of microaggressions, racism and discrimination. These and future interviews will be the center of the study. Students in this FSC program will:

• Undergo training in quantitative and qualitative analysis

• Assist Dr. Lopez’s research team in the analysis and cataloging of interviews and survey data

• Participate in 2 field trips to Cal Poly

• Produce a summative report of findings and present to school/district leaders

The goal of this project is to inform future culturally appropriate and humble school courses, actions, and policies that heal and engage in the prevention of racism. Additionally, only after understanding the strengths, can adequate resources and assistance be created to help this population.

Field Studies Collaborative Application