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Ethnography is commonly defined as the branch of anthropology that scientifically describes specific human cultures and societies. Students taking this course may wish to conduct ethnographic fieldwork in their community as a project in the form of taking oral histories of community members.
The oral history project for this course involves careful planning and practice. Students are expected to review all of the guidelines with the instructor before proceeding. For grading purposes, the preparations for taking oral history count as "low order tasks" and the final product counts as a "high order task".
Preparations:
1. Review the links below to find out what's involved and how to conduct oral history research. (Meet with the instructor to verify your grasp of the procedures and expectations)
Library of Congress - FOLKLIFE AND FIELDWORK: A Layman's Introduction to Field Techniques
Minnesota Historical Society Guidelines for Conducting Oral History
Oral History Guidelines from Oral History Association
Texas Historical Commission: Fundamentals of Oral History
Pretty Impressive Student-Created Ora; History project
2. Prepare your questions, interviewee, equipment (digital recorders are available for you to borrow), forms, etc.
End Products:
1. The recording, photographs (optional) and transcript. [rubric]
2. Essay reflecting on and interpreting the data. [rubric]