Join us for a two-session,
hands-on workshop series where participants
will learn the practical skills and thoughtful approach needed to complete meaningful oral
history interviews. Rather than just hearing
about the process, you’ll actively practice it—
guided step-by-step by Virginia Siegel, Director
of Arkansas Folk and Traditional Arts at the University of Arkansas.
In the first session, we’ll explore the foundations of oral history: interviewing techniques,
ethical considerations, how to develop effective questions, and how to use field recorders
with confidence. Between sessions, you’ll put your new skills into action through a short
“homework” assignment—recording a brief
oral history with a friend or family member. In
the second session, we’ll come back together to
reflect on your experience, discuss challenges
and successes, and learn best archival practices
for preserving audio interviews.
Whether you’re documenting family stories or
community history, you’ll leave with the tools
and understanding to ensure those voices are
heard and preserved for generations to come.