Teaching
As early as History 100, faculty members challenge students to look critically at sources, as well as strengthen writing skills. Individual instructors chose topics that will show students the various ways historians interpret their evidence and allow them to practice interpretation on their own. Whatever the topic, the central aim is for students to come away from the course with a better understanding of the nature and limits of historical evidence, the various legitimate ways of approaching it, and the art of making persuasive claims about it.
Along with the exposure to and interpretation of historical sources in History 100 (something the faculty reinforce over and over again), the more advanced colloquium courses also have a discussion component, which allows faculty to engage students in dialogue. In the colloquium, professors look for various points of view, not only through primary and secondary sources, but also through students’ oral presentations and their participation in the discussions of scholarly articles.
Faculty members in the history department have research interests and expertise in a wide range of subjects. Advisors are dedicated to helping students find a course of study that suits their interests and provides answers and resources about post-graduate options. Additionally, history majors are encouraged to find a professor whose research interests match their own so that they can pursue undergraduate research or independent study.
Along with permanent faculty members, the history department brings a distinguished visiting historian to campus annually through the Douglas Southall Freeman Professorship, established in honor of the noted biographer and journalist by his family. The Freeman Professor teaches one course and either delivers a series of public lectures or organizes an historical conference.
