Program Overview

Experiential Learning for History Students: Active History Project

The Active History Project, specifically the course "Museums, Memory, and Visual Culture" (HIST*3560), is designed to deepen students' understanding of how museums define and communicate cultural memory and how history has been selectively remembered and represented to the public.

Course Details

• Code and Section: HIST356002
• Term: Fall 2020
• Instructor: Shauna McCabe (Art Gallery of Guelph)
• Format: This course will be taught online in a synchronous format.
• Schedule: Classes are scheduled on Wednesdays from 2:30 pm to 5:20 pm.

Course Synopsis

Issues catalyzed by movements such as Black Lives Matter and Indigenous rights have significantly impacted museums, highlighting their role in communicating messages about history, memory, culture, and identity. This course explores how museums and art institutions reflect and shape values, often excluding and marginalizing Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) in the selection, interpretation, and care of art and objects. Students will engage with the Art Gallery of Guelph to explore the practice of history, developing skills in critically evaluating visual culture and participating in museum activities.

Learning Outcomes

1. Develop a broader understanding of how images and objects reflect historical events through lectures, readings, and discussions.
2. Apply critical concepts to evaluate and express how history is communicated in the public sphere through independent research and writing.
3. Gain skills in communicating ideas related to the historical, social, and ethical significance of the visual realm through class discussions and presentations.
4. Gain experience and insight into museum practices through collaborative projects.

Prerequisites

Students do not require previous History or Art History credits to enroll in this class.

Method of Evaluation

• Weekly inquiry contributions: 10%
• Article summaries: 20%
• Essay (artwork/object analysis): 20%
• Independent fieldtrip report: 10%
• Presentation: 10%
• Research Project: 30%

Texts Required

There is no textbook for this course. Weekly readings are available on course reserve or through CourseLink.

Note

Please note that this is a preliminary course description, and the department reserves the right to change any information without notice. The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.