Library 160: Documentation and Representation in Archives

Credits 1
Credit Type
Semester Offered
Spring
Faculty
Hickey

How can or should an archive document the underrepresented voices in the community/communities they serve? Through hands-on work in the Whitman College and Northwest Archives, this course will explore the ethical, legal, and technological challenges of creating-a digital or material archival collection that documents the history and politics of underrepresented voices, both at Whitman College and in the Walla Walla Valley. Students will learn the relationship between archives and oral history projects, and think about how to organize, and display digital content to public audiences. Professional and ethical standards that govern how archivists negotiate with potential donors will also be considered. With this background, students will propose projects that expand who is represented in the Whitman Archives. Topics for student research could include, but are not limited to: International students, First-Generation students, the histories (and present) of student clubs and organizations, and the histories (and present) of migrations to the Walla Walla Valley. Graded credit/no credit.