HIST 300 - Introduction to Public History (3)

Public history is an interdisciplinary form of scholarship practiced as public service. Public historians help create historical understanding by sharing authority and inquiry with a variety of partners, including audiences, museum professionals, reservationists, business leaders and others. Public historians are trained, first and foremost, as historians ‘to conduct research, to craft interpretations and to write well. However, public historians must also be prepared to work collaboratively with partners for whom an understanding of history can have immediate practical implications. This course provides students with an introduction to the field. Students will explore the history of federal and state sponsorship of museums and historic sites, learn to think critically about the needs and interests of audiences, and explore best practices and ethics for public professionals. Recommended Preparation: Must have earned at least a ‘C’ in one 100 or 200 level SS or AH course.

Grading: Graded
Course ID: 100503
Consent: No Special Consent Required
Components: Lecture