In a recent post, I asked for recommendations for advice on books to use in a public history course. I suggested four that I used in an historical interpretation course: Jennifer L. Eichstedt and Stephen Small, Representations of Slavery: Race and Ideology in Southern Plantation Museums (Smithsonian Books, 2002) Michael Kammen, Mystic Chords of Memory: … Continue reading Recommendations for Books to Use in Public History Course
Books for Spring 2012 Courses
I think I've identified most of the books I'll be assigning for my Spring 2012 courses. I may amend this list a bit, but here's what I have so far. History of the U.S. II Robert H. Abzug, America Views the Holocaust, 1933-1945 (Bedford/St. Martin's Press, 1999) ISBN 978-0-312-13393-1 I've had success with Abzug's book in … Continue reading Books for Spring 2012 Courses
Should I Assign My Own Book in Class?
I'm already thinking about the books I want to use in next semester's Jacksonian course, and I have a dilemma. I want to assign the Jacksonian and Antebellum Age essay collection that I edited a few years ago, but I'm reluctant for two reasons. The first is that I'm afraid it smacks of arrogance to … Continue reading Should I Assign My Own Book in Class?
What Belongs in a Public History Course?
I've been mulling over the idea of putting together a public history course. We don't have the resources to develop a major in public history, but by pairing a course or two with an internship and practicum, a minor might be a possibility. If we go through with such a change, I'm expecting that it will … Continue reading What Belongs in a Public History Course?
An Historian’s Perspective on Teaching as Performance
Theatrical professors convinced me to enter the profession. While they were certainly intelligent, it was their ability to perform as professors that drew me in. I didn't consciously recognize that professors performed until I started teaching. I was faced not only with knowing enough history to fill 50 minutes or 120 minutes, but I also had … Continue reading An Historian’s Perspective on Teaching as Performance
What Do Professors Do in the Summertime? Or, Why Summer Research Funding Is Crucial
As promised, I want to discuss why summer research funding is important to me a an active researcher. I previously posted about what goes on in my professional life during the academic year. Theoretically, I am released from my duties from mid-May to mid-August. Those of you in the profession know, however, that administrative paperwork … Continue reading What Do Professors Do in the Summertime? Or, Why Summer Research Funding Is Crucial
Bring On the New Year!
Like most academics probably do, I regard August as my "New Year." This is the time of year when I make resolutions and hold great optimism for what's to come in the fall: My lectures will be better, my desk will stay cleaner, and the electronics in the classroom will always work. The adjustment from the less-stuctured summer months to … Continue reading Bring On the New Year!
Is Historical Knowledge Declining?
The recent announcement of National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores is adding to the angst that "another generation of ignorant voters" is being raised. (In a classic appeal to conspiracy thinking, Rick Santorum blames the Left.) Not everyone is buying the historical-hell-in-a-handbasket meme, though. Paul Burke points out several flaws in the exam, including … Continue reading Is Historical Knowledge Declining?
Books for Fall 2011 Early U.S. Survey Course
I'm using three new books in my Early U.S. survey courses this fall. I like to assign books that cover a mixture of topics and usually use two that include primary sources. Richard Godbeer, The Salem Witch Trials: A Brief History with Documents (Bedford/St. Martin's 2011) I've been waiting for a short B/SM book on the … Continue reading Books for Fall 2011 Early U.S. Survey Course
Revisiting Lies My Teacher Told Me
One of my former professors and current colleagues is retiring. He brought a present by my office last week: an e-mail that I sent him near the end of my first semester as a Ph.D. student at Mississippi State. The e-mail outlines my infatuation with James Loewen's Lies My Teacher Told Me and my plan … Continue reading Revisiting Lies My Teacher Told Me
Jacksonian America: Society, Personality, and Politics 