Introduction to Public History: Working with Museums, Archives, and Historic Sites
HIST 330
Spring 2024
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01
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This course will introduce students to the history, ideas, and best practices that shape the world of "public history." How do institutions like museums, archives, and historic sites balance the standards of formal academic scholarship with the demands of interpreting history for a larger public audience? What role do these cultural organizations play in the construction of larger historical narratives? What responsibilities do they have to their audience, stakeholders, and society? The course will turn on six key concepts that shape the world of public history: History and Memory, Inclusivity and Accessibility, Shared Authority/Inquiry, Agendas and Audiences, Legal and Ethical Frameworks, and Economics and Entrepreneurship. Through class readings, discussions, and field work, students will develop an understanding of not only the theories and ideas behind public history, but also the practical daily concerns public historians encounter on the ground. The course will help prepare students who are considering a career in museums, archives, historic sites, historic preservation, and the nonprofit sector. Students will also work with the Wesleyan University Special Collections staff to complete exhibits to be displayed in the Olin Library |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
SBS HIST |
| Course Format: Seminar | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (HIST-MN)(HIST) |
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Past Enrollment Probability: 50% - 74% |
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