This two-part introduction to oral history explores both the practical and ethical considerations involved in working with recorded voices.
Across two sessions, participants will be guided through the full lifecycle of oral history practice – how to record and care for oral histories, and how to make thoughtful decisions when oral history material is shared publicly through exhibitions, publications, or digital formats.
Each session is booked individually, and there is no expectation to attend both if you do not feel the need to. Booking links and individual session details can be found below.
Approaches to Oral History
A two-hour online session for individuals, community groups, and organisations interested in recording oral histories.
The session will be led by Sarah Lowry (oral historian and Oral History Society trainer), Mary Stewart (Lead Curator of Oral History, British Library) and Kate O’Neill (Sound Archivist, Essex Record Office).
The session will explore the value of oral history and introduce key aspects of planning a project, from deciding who to interview through to equipment, training, and budgeting. It will also offer practical guidance on the steps required to archive oral histories, to ensure that the interviews are accessible to audiences now and in the future.
The session will include time for breakout discussions and Q&A – participants are encouraged to bring questions and share their own experiences.