My English class this quarter is surrounded around our one project. This one project is a research project and its first step is to travel to the Santa Clara University archives to begin our research. But instead of just throwing us into the old documents, our teacher had us read a chapter by Katherine Tirabassi which gives us tips on how to approach an archival research project.
Source: VH-1
Tirabassi broke her chapter up into four main tips or principles. She wrote this chapter because she has had a lot of experience working in archives and wanted to help others as they enter the sometimes confusing world of archives.
Principle of Selectivity: This is the understanding of how and why certain archives are chosen and why some are omitted. Archivists looks at documents for what they seem to be, what they are, and what they have the potential to be.
Principle of Cross-Referencing: This is the practice of viewing multiple documents to create a well-rounded unstinting of a document. Archival researchers and archivists use contextual clues to piece together information and stories. This can also included examining original documents as well as modified versions
Principle of Categorization: This helps archival researchers and archivists to learn where and how to find more information. Artifacts are often organized by person, group of people, event, or series of events.
Principle of Closure: This is the understanding that there are gaps in the archives and that there is a point where research must stop. There will always be more to search through, but researchers need to find a place in their research that is a good stopping point. Additionally, researchers need to analyze all of the data they have collected, so they can either find more information or start their project.
Source: Comedy Central
Tirabassi’s tips have opened my eyes to how complex and rewarding archival research can be. Tirabassi also adds that it is important to bring the necessary and effective note taking material necessary. I did not really think about how important this is and how beneficial it will be to be fully prepared in all aspects: mentally and physically. I am very excited to go to the Santa Clara University archives, so I can learn more about my school’s rich history.
Source: tenor.co
Well its goodbye for now…
Source: Disney
But I promise there is always tomorrow.