Assignment 4: Reading Response and University Archive Report
Read and review the assigned readings on UIUC Student Reform work by Michael Metz. Thinking specifically about the diverse concerns that grew to be included in UIUC Student calls for reform, list at least 3 different strategies that different students, campus groups, or even campus leadership used to communicate those concerns and press for change. How did these strategies express competing visions for a safe and inclusive campus? With this strategies in mind, list at least 3 barriers -- social, material/technological, and political -- that they worked to overcome. (approximately one page)
Part 2: University Archive Visit Report
On Thursday, September 14, we will meet at noon at the University Archives - Room 146 of the Main Library [1408 W. Gregory Dr. | Urbana, IL 61801]. We will have pre-selected several boxes of archival items addressing the larger themes of our course. Our orientation/tour by the University archivists will begin promptly at noon. If you cannot find us, or if you show up late, please call or text Karen at 217-898-8787. Bring your laptop or a notebook, pencil, and cell phone/camera so that you can take notes/document your visit. Please note: no ink pens or bags are allowed in the Archives. Before you enter the Archives, you'll need to store your backpack in the lockers outside the Archives near the entrance.
- From the several boxes provided by the archives, you will pick a box that looks interesting or covers a topic you might be interested in. There will be two boxes per table, with post-its indicating the course topic they cover. This will be first-come, first-served with your classmates; there may be up to three students per box. You will have about 45 minutes to look through a box, with the opportunity to move to another box and topic within that time. You won't likely be able to get through everything - but aim to browse through a good portion and see what you find interesting. Take at least 3 photos and document your favorite selections, making sure to make note of the box number(s) and collection record title and series number(s) (EXAMPLE: Plato Notes Files 1972-1982; Series Number 7/13/10; Box #1). Keep in mind that these collections can also be useful for getting a read of the historical context of student and campus concerns that can be relevant for your final projects.
- In no more than 1.5 pages, describe and summarize your observations from the Archive visit and your selected Box. What primary sources and materials did you find? What concerns do you see voiced and are preserved here? What parties are involved? What clues do you see for the larger context in which those concerns emerge? Do you see clues about what concerns at the time were around safety, security, and/or inclusion? Include at least three photos to document what you observe.
- Make sure to upload your photos and your reflections to your Scalar page.