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Whispered Tales and Wobbly Memories: The Quirks of Oral History
Have you ever heard a story passed down through generations, a tale whispered from grandparent to grandchild, a memory shared over steaming mugs of tea? That’s the magic of oral history – a tapestry woven from personal narratives, a window into the past seen through the eyes of those who lived it. But hold on,…
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Memory on Mute: Tips for Handling Lapses in Oral History Interviews
Oral histories paint vivid portraits of the past, capturing the unique perspectives and experiences of individuals who lived it. But even the most vibrant memories can sometimes flicker and fade. What happens when, amidst the flow of an interview, your narrator forgets a key detail or even contradicts themselves? Don’t panic! Memory lapses are a…
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How to Turn Your Passion for Oral History into a Career
Ever spend hours on the phone, enthralled by your grandma’s tales of the good ol’ days? Maybe you’re the friend everyone spills their secrets to. If you have a knack for getting people to open up and share their stories, then my friend, you have the golden ticket to a fascinating career in oral history!…
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The Future of Oral History
In recent years, oral history has experienced a resurgence of interest, driven by the increasing availability of digital technology and a growing recognition of the importance of preserving the voices of marginalized communities. As we move into the future, oral history is poised to play an even more vital role in our collective understanding of…
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Turning Interviews into Podcasts: Making Oral Histories Accessible to a Wider Audience
Imagine history class, but way cooler! No textbooks filled with snoozy dates. Instead, you get to listen to real people dish on what life was actually like back then. That’s the magic of oral histories. The problem? These juicy stories are often stashed away in dusty libraries, gathering cobwebs. But hey, it’s the podcast era,…
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Unveiling a Community’s Soul: Where Folklife Meets Oral History
Have you ever wondered where the delicious scent of your grandma’s cookies comes from, or why a particular tune always gets played at your local festivals? These are all examples of folklife, the everyday customs, traditions, and cultural expressions that weave the fabric of our communities. But how do we learn about these traditions and…
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A Step-by-Step Guide to Publishing Oral History Interviews Online
In the age of digital connectivity, sharing oral history interviews has become more accessible than ever before. By publishing your interviews online, you can transform these precious resources into a global repository of knowledge, enriching the historical landscape and preserving the voices of those who have shaped our world. This guide will delve into the…
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Tips on How to Build Trust and Connection with Your Oral History Interviewees
Rapport is the foundation of any successful oral history interview. When an interviewee feels comfortable and trusting with the interviewer, they are more likely to share their story in a full and honest way. Here are a few tips on how to build rapport with your oral history interviewees: Do your research. Learn as much…
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Tips on How to Build a Career as an Oral Historian
Oral historians are scholars who collect, preserve, and interpret oral testimonies to provide first-person perspectives on historical events and experiences. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, libraries, archives, and government agencies. This blog will explore strategies for individuals seeking careers in oral history to develop their skills and achieve success. Let’s…
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Tips on how to Approach Potential Interviewees and Get Their Consent to be Interviewed
When conducting oral history interviews, it is important to approach potential interviewees in a respectful and professional manner. You should also be clear about the purpose of the interview and obtain their informed consent before proceeding. Here are some tips on how to approach potential interviewees and get their consent to be interviewed: 1. Identify…
