Students in this course will learn how academic and public historians are using digital tools and media to reach the public. In place of traditional assessments such as quizzes and exams, students will demonstrate their learning by contributing to class projects and leading an individual project of their choosing. After an introduction to a variety of methods and tools, students will apply what they've learned in an individual project that blends traditional historical skills such as research, analysis, and organization with one or more digital/media tools to produce a public-facing work that they can proudly add to their portfolios.
Examples of past projects include websites, podcasts, videos, digital exhibits, audio tours, and immersive virtual tours inside museums and historical landmarks. No equipment or past experience with technology is required or expected. The keys to success in this course include a desire to improve traditional research and writing skills, a collaborative spirit, curiosity, discipline, self-direction, and a willingness to try new things. Let's have fun and connect the public to history.
Headlining Image: “We Can Do It!,” poster by J. Howard Miller that became associated with Rosie the Riveter.
National Archives, Washington, D.C. (ARC identifier 535413)
