Fragmented selves: Introducing students to archival research and historical representations
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This multipart activity introduces students to archival research and the questions of historical representations, “accuracy,” and social media. Consisting of the creation of a personal archive (in the form of either one of their social media profiles or a curated collection of photos) and two short papers, this unit-long activity acts as an effective avenue to explore complex historiographical topics and to develop critical thinking and analysis skills. Variations of this activity would be well-suited for courses in rhetoric, media studies, cultural studies, or broader research methods courses.Courses: This unit-long activity is suited to any courses in which students engage with archives or critique representation, including courses in rhetoric, media studies, cultural studies, or research methods.Objectives: Students will be able to: (1) understand and enact foundational archival and historiographical research practices; (2) critically engage with their peers’ social media presence, as well as their own; (3) articulate complexities of representation; and (4) recognize their own experience, self, and artifacts as relevant and meaningful sources of knowledge.
Source: Communication Teacher
Author: Sophie S. Downing
Institution: Ohio University
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4404296980