Archival Research for the Modern Student: How Your Unique Lens Adds to the Academic Conversation
Abstract/Description/Artist Statement
In a world where user interfaces and technology drive knowledge production, how does the modern, technologically savvy student demystify archival research to cultivate deep knowledge? Drawing on Queer and Feminist theory, I will bring an engaging, fresh perspective to the discipline of archival research that can seem out of reach for modern scholars, including how their unique perspectives contribute to the larger body of knowledge. Examples will include archival research projects I have completed and submitted, and will highlight positive outcomes as both an academic and a researcher. Those projects include research for a podcast “Out In the South”, Rosie the Riveter, Gad Beck, and the LGBTQ+ Holocaust narrative. Also included in the presentation is the use of technology, which is beneficial for research, as well as understanding the digitization and globalization of archival materials. These advances in the accessibility of digitized information have made what was once limited to small numbers globally accessible. In addition to addressing perceived barriers and misconceptions about archives, I will highlight the vibrant, accessible, and thriving spaces for academics that archives are. Adding to the academic conversation through archival research requires moving beyond mere document collection to interpret, critically analyze, and reposition documents to challenge or refine existing narratives. Understanding your unique perspective and the nuance that can bring to information is critical. Focusing on why adding to the academic conversation is a key element of research and on how it can be fun are central to this presentation.
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Cathleen Rhodes
Faculty Advisor/Mentor Email
carhodes@odu.edu
Faculty Advisor/Mentor Department
Women's and Gender Studies
College/School Affiliation
College of Arts & Letters
Student Level Group
Undergraduate
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Archival Research for the Modern Student: How Your Unique Lens Adds to the Academic Conversation
In a world where user interfaces and technology drive knowledge production, how does the modern, technologically savvy student demystify archival research to cultivate deep knowledge? Drawing on Queer and Feminist theory, I will bring an engaging, fresh perspective to the discipline of archival research that can seem out of reach for modern scholars, including how their unique perspectives contribute to the larger body of knowledge. Examples will include archival research projects I have completed and submitted, and will highlight positive outcomes as both an academic and a researcher. Those projects include research for a podcast “Out In the South”, Rosie the Riveter, Gad Beck, and the LGBTQ+ Holocaust narrative. Also included in the presentation is the use of technology, which is beneficial for research, as well as understanding the digitization and globalization of archival materials. These advances in the accessibility of digitized information have made what was once limited to small numbers globally accessible. In addition to addressing perceived barriers and misconceptions about archives, I will highlight the vibrant, accessible, and thriving spaces for academics that archives are. Adding to the academic conversation through archival research requires moving beyond mere document collection to interpret, critically analyze, and reposition documents to challenge or refine existing narratives. Understanding your unique perspective and the nuance that can bring to information is critical. Focusing on why adding to the academic conversation is a key element of research and on how it can be fun are central to this presentation.