Inspiring Pedagogy: Talking to Educators about Oral History in the Classroom

Abstract

This chapter demonstrates the pedagogical value of oral history and how it has been used in educational settings. Based on a series of interviews of teachers who use oral history with their students, it gives practical examples of just how to “do” oral history in the classroom. Three common teaching philosophies or approaches are discussed, which underpin the motivation to use oral history. First, every teacher interviewed had an innate interest in new ways to engage students. Second, they had a particular vision of what teaching and learning should be: education as more of an exchange, a collaborative effort between teacher and student. Finally, there was a common focus on skills acquisition: Oral history methodology was viewed as a tremendous pedagogical tool to help impart key skills to students.