CAS NOVAK

Oral History Interview

StoryCorps URL:

https://archive.storycorps.org/interviews/covid-19-higher-education/

https://archive.storycorps.org/interviews/2nd-part-2/

Student Reflection

a. Process: What did you learn about the technical parts of conducting an oral history interview? What aspect did you find most challenging? What aspect was most enjoyable?

It was very easy to do. I imagined it would be harder. However, I really wish that you could go and edit the actual interview rather than just the information about it.

b. Content: What did you learn about the topic that you didn’t already know?

I learned about how this coming spring semester should be going and I learned that they were pretty abruptly ripped from their work environment.

c. The experience overall: In previous modules, you learned about oral history. You had the chance to gain an understanding of what oral history is and what it is designed to do. You read about interview tips and best practices. And, you had the opportunity to examine closely one audio and/or video oral history and evaluate it. How did actually conducting an oral history interview feel? Share your reactions:

It was really simple and free flowing. Usually I get really clammy about talking to people, but It was surprisingly easy. I think that had to contribute to it being online.

d. Inquiry Based Thinking: While this reflection assignment in particular emphasizes metacognitive thinking, the Oral History Interview Final project mainly requires InquiryBased Thinking.

I think it meets this learning outcome because sometimes people can be vague with their answers or you might have to come to your own conclusions about the answers they’ve given.

e. Suggestions for improvement: What recommendations do you have? If your instructor uses this assignment in future FYS sections, what changes would you recommend?

I honestly don’t have any. The assignment went a lot smoother than I had imagined and I think I’m pretty happy with it, other than a few mistakes on my end.

f. Finally, talk to a future FYS student about this project: What would you like to tell them about this assignment? What tips and/or advice would you offer a future FYS student ass/he begins examining oral histories and prepares to conduct one?

It is so much easier than I imagined. Don’t stress yourself out over it. It’ll be okay. If I can do it, so can you.