Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/uol-public-history

In an age where understanding our history is more crucial than ever, Coursera’s course ‘Applied Public History: Places, People, Stories’ offers a comprehensive and engaging approach to public history. This course is designed for anyone interested in exploring how history shapes our communities and how we can actively participate in the storytelling of our past.

The course is structured into six weeks, each focusing on different aspects of public history. In the first week, titled ‘Your Place’, learners are introduced to the course presenters and dive into the significance of place and history. With resources from Historic England and the Layers of London project, participants gain insights into how to engage communities in understanding their historic environments. This week sets a strong foundation for the course, encouraging learners to share their experiences and expertise.

The second week, ‘Discovering Stories’, is particularly captivating as it showcases various case studies that highlight innovative methods of collecting and sharing historical narratives. From the Youth Club Archive to the oral histories of Syrian refugees, this week emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in public history.

Moving into the third week, ‘Public History and Creative Practice’, the course takes a creative turn. Learners explore how artistic collaborations can enhance historical interpretation. This week includes a creative masterclass, allowing participants to apply their artistic skills, regardless of their background. This hands-on approach fosters a deeper connection to the material and encourages creative thinking in historical contexts.

The fourth week, ‘History and the Present’, examines how history is commemorated today. This week prompts critical discussions about exclusion and representation in historical narratives, making it highly relevant to contemporary societal debates. The inclusion of projects like #RememberHer provides a powerful lens through which to view the impact of history on present-day issues.

In the fifth week, ‘Research Together’, the course emphasizes participatory research and co-production. This week encourages learners to transform passive audiences into active researchers, fostering a collaborative spirit in uncovering history. The insights from various projects, including community archives, are invaluable for anyone looking to engage with history in a meaningful way.

Finally, the course wraps up with ‘Communication and Evaluation’, where participants consolidate their learning and reflect on their experiences. This week reinforces the importance of effective communication in public history and provides tools for future development.

Overall, ‘Applied Public History: Places, People, Stories’ is an enriching course that not only educates but also inspires action. It equips learners with a toolkit to engage with their communities and share histories in innovative ways. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a professional in the field, or simply curious about the past, this course is highly recommended for its depth, creativity, and practical applications.

Enroll today and start your journey into the fascinating world of applied public history!

Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/uol-public-history