Applied Public History: Researching and Sharing Local Stories

History is more than dates in a book; it is the lived experience of people and the stories embedded in the places around us. This course provides a foundation in applied public history, teaching you how to bridge the gap between academic research and meaningful public engagement. Learn how to uncover forgotten narratives, collaborate with community members, and present history in ways that resonate with modern audiences. You will explore modern methods for preservation and the ethical considerations necessary for inclusive storytelling in a digital age. What you'll learn: - Understand core terminology and the foundational principles of public history and heritage. - Research the history of specific sites and individuals using primary sources and oral history techniques. - Create compelling historical narratives designed for diverse public readers. - Practice ethical community engagement to ensure inclusive and representative storytelling. - Apply modern digital archiving concepts to organize and preserve local historical data. - Evaluate the significance of physical places and cultural landscapes in historical interpretation. The course begins with essential definitions and the evolution of the field before moving into practical methods for research and community collaboration through written exercises. It is designed for beginners, local history enthusiasts, and aspiring heritage professionals with no prior experience required. Start building your toolkit for interpreting and sharing the past today.