Oral History as a Research Method

An easily recognized definition of oral history as a research method, is one that generates new primary sources in an effort to balance the historical record. Through interviewing we seek to recover, discover, and include a myriad of voices that are conspicuously absent in the archives. The question of what we can learn from these interviews however, has not only been the subject of much scrutiny as oral history has evolved, but is as varied as the disciplinary perspectives that guide our inquiries, and our ears in listening. This talk will highlight the interdisciplinary influences on Oral History as a research method, with particular attention to the role of Cultural Studies in Oral History, and Oral History in Cultural Studies.

The CRiCS Professional Development Series is a series of workshops intended for members of the centre (researchers, students in the Cultural Studies MA program, research assistants) to gain new skills in a variety of different professional areas related to Cultural Studies and Cultural Studies research. For more information on the series and other upcoming events, see the Professional Development Series page.