UM-Dearborn History Portfolio

Note: we suggest you create a Google Drive folder (for example History Portfolio Documents) and place any presentations, images, papers, etc. in this folder so it is easier for you to add links to them. To add a link to one of these files:

Go to that file and copy the URL, then go back to your Google Site page
Put your cursor where you would like the link to the file
Type in the text that you would like to display
Select that text, then click the link icon in the toolbar
Paste the URL of the file from your Google Drive folder

Archive

Note: once you are finished typing your information on this page, you should delete the instructional and sample text provided on the page.

In this section of the portfolio, upload and store your work from your history courses each semester as you complete the assignments.

Your archive should include:

at least four significant assignments/papers from upper-division (300 and above) history courses taken at UM-Dearborn
your major paper from HIST 300
at least one paper from a senior-level course (HIST 4XX or HIST 4XXX)

You can and should include research papers, book reviews, take-home essay exams, formal primary document analyses, historiographical essays, and even class presentations. Basically anything that is a substantive work, involving research, the construction of thesis, or sustained independent thinking should go here. DO NOT include in-class or on-line exams. Upload your work at the time you turn them in for class so that you have plenty of material to include as you create your portfolio for graduation.

Use this area of the e-portfolio to create a table of contents for the assignments/papers you upload (see the sample below). Here you might also include:

a few notes on your grade (including grades is optional)
what feedback you received
what you think you did well
what you might have done differently
applicable learning goals (Conceptual; Primary Source Analysis; Secondary Source Analysis; Research; Communication)
other comments that will help you recall the strengths of each work

Sample Table of Contents:

Primary Document Analyses of Letters Written During WWII (named "lettersWWII.docx")
- Dr. Smith encouraged me to consider context more closely and to derive context directly from the source or established records of the source.
- I was particularly proud of this work because I was able to use multiple sources to establish an argument. While I didn't get an A on this paper, I really learned a lot about how to combine audio and written sources in my paper. I think this demonstrates the history major's Primary Source Analysis and Research Skills learning goals.
- I know there are experts on campus (like Dr. Jones) that could have helped me better understand how to associated geographical information to better establish my thesis. I should have planned ahead better so I had time to get his feedback.
- I chose this paper because I was really proud of my work. I really enjoyed being trusted with primary sources and having access to those for this work. That trust added a level of excitement during this assignment.
Presentation on Detroit Communities in the 1930s (named "Detroit1930s.ppt")
- Earned an A. The class had great questions and really seemed to listen during my presentation. Afterwards Jane, who lives in Southwest Detroit, told me she didn't know about the rich history of her neighborhood. That was pretty cool that and made it feel like more than an assignment.
- I tried to be as objective as possible, even thought I am from Detroit and have my own biases. I was really proud that I made it through the presentation--I hate speaking in front of class. I developed an appreciation for the diversity of cultures that make up Detroit.
- I could have rehearsed what I wanted to say more. When I got nervous, I lost track of what I wanted to say
- Talking to Jane and getting the A are really what make this standout to me
etc.