Becoming Community Historians: What College Students Learn from Conducting Oral Histories

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:45 pm - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Roundtable Session 5: Student Learning and Development in College and Beyond

Abstract

This study examines the ongoing "Redefining Moments of Change" Oral History Project, an initiative where Connecticut college students collect and archive personal narratives of transformation in the lives of state residents. The study investigates what participants identify as benefits and learnings of their involvement, and how it could deepen understanding of community history. Drawing on in-depth interviews, preliminary findings show that interns developed critical research, emotional, and ethical skills while challenging dominant historical narratives through community storytelling. The project also points toward urgent ethical questions about digital consent and AI risks in archiving. Ultimately, the project offers a replicable model for experiential learning that bridges university and community, positioning oral history as a tool for democratizing knowledge and fostering engagement.

Authors

• Kathia Chilavert, University of Connecticut

• Morgaen L. Donaldson, University of Connecticut