UL Oral Heritage Studies COurse

University Certificate in Oral Heritage Studies Introduction This is a one-year, part-time Certificate course, worth 24 ECTS credits, NFQ Minor Award at level 6. Oral accounts form a vital part of our heritage. Since earliest times they have formed the basis of history as well as playing a significant role in family and community memory. This Certificate in Oral Heritage Studies will examine the wealth of recorded national and local oral narrative sources in Ireland in both oral history and folklore. It will cater for the continuing education needs of those who wish to undertake study in the theory and methodology of oral history research particularly as it might be applied to an understanding of local, regional and national identity. Objectives On completion of the programme a participant will have acquired the ability to: Prepare, conduct and present oral history research, interviewing and digitisation. Locate their research within broader historical and cultural contexts. Discuss the theoretical background to the application and analysis of oral history Programme of Study The course consists of four modules of 6 credits each, which will be delivered one evening per week during the UL Autumn and Spring semesters. To facilitate students who live at a distance, the course will include blended (on-line), learning. A sympathetic academic environment will be provided by the course lecturers, who will offer guidance in appropriate research skills. Autumn Semester HI2021 Introduction to Oral History: Theory and Practice This module will introduce participants to the key concepts, theories and methodologies in oral history. It will equip students with essential skills in interviewing techniques and encourage engagement with ethical research questions. HI2041 Irish history: Sources and Methods This module will assist students in the contextualisation of their own research projects in an historical and cultural context. It will introduce documentary and other sources for the study of Irish history. Spring Semester HI2032 Oral Heritage and Memory, private and public This module will introduce participants to Irish and international folklore and heritage studies as well as exploring issues relating to public history and commemoration. HI2042 Research Seminar Module A self-directed research module providing assistance in the skills necessary for the conduct and analysis of oral history research projects. Assessment A central educational goal of the course is to promote the academic autonomy of each student. Each student will be required to complete their own oral history research project, write, present and discuss a research proposal and short papers using oral and written sources. Academic Calendar 2011-12Autumn Teaching Term Weeks 1-12 Spring Teaching Term Weeks 1-12 Entrance RequirementsApplications are invited from mature students (in general 23 years of age on 1 January of the year of registration). Each mature student is considered on an individual basis, whose academic qualifications, work experience, motivation and overall potential for the programme are evaluated.Course Fee Academic Year 2011-2012 : to be confirmed.Application Forms Ennis Regional Learning CentreCounty MuseumArthur’s RowEnnisTel: 065-6866844. Course DirectorDr. Catherine O’ ConnorDepartment of HistoryUniversity of LimerickTel: 061-213171; Email: Catherine.oconnor@ul.ie Course ArrangementsThe course will take place one night per week, 6.30-9.30 p.m.