The last few weeks with the seniors have been a busy blur. They spent last week preparing their presentations, and we all generally freaked out at how quickly this day arrived. I wish I had them for at least another week, but alas, they would like to graduate and move on with their lives.
During the final week of the project, we had some issues figuring out audio compatibility, and I realized that, although Chromebooks are extremely handy, we can't do everything on them. Technology, in general, was a source of frustration, but I definitely know how to fix these issues next year.
We also learned that transcribing oral history, or transcribing anything for that matter, is harder than it seems. Do you type what they've said verbatim? Do you leave out the laughter? The uhs? Mary Tyson at the Community Library sent some guides that helped clear up those questions. I realize now that transcribing takes a long time. One group's transcription is nearly 30 pages in length...that's a whole lot of listening, pausing, and typing, so I commend these seniors for the work they did. When I get some time, I will work making the transcripts more accurate and consistent. We also need to get feedback from the interviewees about the transcripts, as well.
We learned a few other lessons. For example, video is a better medium than just audio, but we need to get the right lighting and higher quality. We also discovered background noise can be a huge distraction. One video had a ticking clock, and another had a barking dog, and once you notice those noises, it's hard to hear anything else. Finally, I learned to not try to do Hamlet in the middle of doing a project like this. Big mistake.
The presentations went fantastically. I was ridiculously nervous for some reason, so thankfully the students were way more relaxed than me. There were great reflections about the process, and you could really tell that each group member personally connected with the interviewee in some way. They picked up some Carey history, but I think, mostly, they picked up some wisdom.
On the evaluations I had the seniors completed they all said that the Legacy Project was a highlight and to definitely do it again next year. I agree. I think it was a rewarding capstone to senior English for all of us. Here are a few photos from their presentations.
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