Instructions
This assignment invites you to deepen your understanding of historical events, cultures, and societies by critically engaging with artifacts and exhibits at a history museum (either in-person or virtual) or a historical site. Through this exploration, you will analyze how history is presented, evaluate its significance, and connect these insights to course material.
Instructions
Visit a Historical Site or Museum
-Choose a history museum or historical site related to American history before 1877. This may be an in-person or virtual visit.
-Explore the exhibits thoroughly, paying close attention to those that align with topics covered in class.
Select Three Artifacts or Exhibits
-Identify three artifacts or exhibits that relate to a central theme or topic from the course. Examples: The American Revolution. The Civil War. Abolition.
-Take detailed notes, including descriptions, historical context, and any curatorial explanations provided.
Conduct a Critical Analysis
Your analysis should be structured as follows:
Description of the Artifacts/ExhibitsProvide a detailed account of each artifact, including:
-Title or name
-Time period
-Creator (if known) Usually the Museum itself or a staff person.
-Key details from museum descriptions
Historical Significance
-Explain the importance of each artifact or exhibit in understanding its historical period.
-Discuss how it contributes to a broader understanding of the era or event.
Connection to Course Material
-Relate your selected artifacts to specific topics, readings, or discussions from class.
-Use at least three academic references, which may include course readings, museum documentation, and outside academic sources.
Museum Interpretation and Presentation
-Evaluate how the museum presents the artifacts. Consider:
Does it provide adequate historical context?
Are there any biases or missing perspectives?
How might these choices shape visitors’ understanding of history?
Personal Reflection
-Share your thoughts on the experience. Consider:
What did you learn?
Did any exhibit challenge or change your perspective on history?
Visual Documentation
-Include photographs or images of the artifacts (if permitted) and supplemental visuals to support your analysis.
Supporting Documentation
-Much of your project can be your own thoughts and observations but do include some properly cited museum website information, our textbook and/or additional sources. YOU MUST HAVE AT LEAST THREE CITATIONS (one from our textbook, one from the museum’s brochure or website and a third from any academic source)!
Submission Options
Option 1: PowerPoint Presentation
-Minimum of five slides.
-Include both text and visuals.
-Speaker notes or a narrative should provide a detailed explanation.
-Use APA, MLA, or Chicago citation style (History majors are encouraged to use Chicago Style).
Option 2: Video Presentation
-Length: 3-5 minutes.
-Incorporate relevant visuals (artifact images, diagrams, historical maps, etc.).
-Ensure clear audio and smooth presentation.
-Use APA, MLA, or Chicago citation style (History majors are encouraged to use Chicago Style).
