Experiential Learning and Digital Approaches to Public Medieval History (HIST*3560) | College of Arts

Experiential Learning and Digital Approaches to Public Medieval History (HIST*3560)

Code and section: HIST*3560*02

Term: Fall 2021

Instructor: Sierra Dye

Details

Method of Delivery:

This class is planned for primarily face-to-face sessions on campus, Fridays 8:30am-11:20am. Periodic virtual meetings will also be held over Zoom in order to facilitate virtual-skill building as part of “experiential learning.” Students will also participate and present at a public, virtual conference and website launch on November 6. 

Course Synopsis: 

In this course, we will explore how history can be presented to the public through engaging and accessible technology. Utilizing the University of Guelph’s valuable collection of medieval Scottish land charters (c. 13th-16th centuries), the students will design, write, and create public digital exhibits about the charters using Omeka. We will also work collaboratively to produce virtual group projects, such as film and/or mapping projects, in order to highlight the strengths of our collection. Over the course of the semester, the students will develop skills relating to the creation and presentation of medieval history, public history, the Digital Humanities, digital archive creation and curation, exhibit planning, public presentation and performance, and more. In doing so, the student will gain valuable experience and marketable skills for future employment. 

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, you should be able to: 

  1. Identify and explore the use and history of medieval primary sources (such as land charters, parchment, and wax seals) through in-person and online discussions. 
  2. Develop research and writing skills by presenting a medieval history topic to the general public.
  3. Gain experience in exhibit design and digital curation by creating a digital exhibit in Omeka.
  4. Utilize digital tools and technology, such as WeVideo or Neatline, and work collaboratively as part of a team to design and produce a virtual project.
  5. Practice and develop oral communication and public-speaking skills by presenting your work to the class and at a public, virtual conference.  
  6. Engage in productive group feedback through peer-review and presentation feedback sessions.
  7. Consider and reflect on the historical and project design skills developed in this course and how they may be of use in the future. 

Prerequisites:

7.50 credits - Must be completed prior to taking this course.

Methods of Evaluation and Weights:

Discussion and Participation: 25%
Digital Exhibit & Presentation: 30%
Group Project: 30%
Course Progress and Reflection: 15%

Texts and/or Resources Required:

There is no textbook for this course. Electronic copies of readings and other activities will be provided on Courselink and/or ARES. Access to the internet and a webcam is required for this course. 

*Please note: This is a preliminary web course description only. The department reserves the right to change without notice any information in this description. The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.*
 

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