Student Stories
"I thought the Oral History Made Easy course (spring 2024) was accessible and easily understood. The PowerPoint presentations were easy to follow and very informative. Many resources, such as articles and videos, supplemented the information on the PowerPoint and the discussions in the class sessions. When documents and practices needed to be discerned between Europe and the United States, it was clearly delineated. Three things I enjoyed most were the opportunity to conduct an oral history interview - that practice opportunity was invaluable; having the chance to meet with class members in small group sessions, even though I didn’t make them, I thought that was also a great opportunity to learn first-hand about their work and connect with them on a personal level; and Angela, our instructor’s extensive knowledge of oral history, along with her patient and nurturing demeanor." Dr Christiana Best-Giacomini, Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work and Equitable Community Practice at the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford, Connecticut USA, Oral History Made Easy Spring Cohort 2024,
"I think it (Oral History Made Easy Spring 2024) was fantastic and pitched at exactly the right level for me.It gave me confidence in my own ability .It provided a simple legal framework to get necessary approvals. Allowed a connection to others that had similar goals in oral history. Great course materials. This course was perfect for me, I couldn't fault it."Liam O' Sullivan, Community Oral Historian Kells, Co Kilkenny Ireland, Oral History Made Easy Spring Cohort 2024
"It (Oral History Made Easy Spring 2024) was a fantastic refresher, full of clear instructions and insights to prepare for the field. The pilot interviews took the jitters out of starting again after not doing oral history for a decade. Dr. Maye-Banbury is not only a great instructor, she is a joyful person to be around. Her wiliness to answer any question and be accessible nearly anytime showed that she wanted to see you seceded, and not just check off content. I think it was fantastic and pitched at exactly the right level for me."Adam Azzalino, Milwaukee Historical Society USA. Oral History Made Easy Spring Cohort 2024
"The course (Oral History Made Easy Spring 2024) delivered on the advertising: a fast track approach to learning the basics of oral history.The cohort approach was helpful to hear about other people's experiences and goals. The one-on-one meeting with Angela is crucial for people to be able to iron out any wrinkles in their project. The student portal and the class materials. I honestly can't think of anything to improve it. Nothing else was needed for me. I liked the multimedia approach. There are so many different aspects and types of oral history interviews, I thought Angela did a terrific job summarizing them and creating a hybrid method that made the topic approachable." Heather Barthell, Michigan Quilt Guild Manchester Michigan USA.
The course (Oral History Made Easy Spring 2024) covered all necessary methodologies, ethical considerations, and practical techniques that are invaluable. The real-world examples particularly helpful, and I appreciate how the course encouraged us to think critically about the ways oral history can impact communities and preserve cultural heritage. The course was hands-on learning which was valuable. Being able to practice interview techniques, develop questions, and explore real-world scenarios made the content feel applicable. The overview of oral history methodology, from planning to ethical considerations was really helpful. The vibes were amazing, supportive and engaging, feedback was constructive, and knowledgeable." Majella Mark, Artist Brooklyn New York USA.
"I took part in an oral history workshop ran by Angela Maye-Banbury in summer of 2023, as part of the Achill Oral Histories Project. The workshop was absolutely amazing in showcasing the power of oral history and its ability to reveal, reinforce and reinvigorate one’s sense of place. The workshop gave me a fantastic understanding of the principles, methodologies and ethics of conducting oral history research, thanks to the fantastic design of the activities conducted in a group setting. The teaching style of Angela allows for questions and queries to be raised in an entirely non-judgmental and understanding manner, which allows for deeper and more personalised learning for all involved. Angela’s oral history training provides a fantastic base to deeper understand the power and importance of recording people’s accounts of the past today, so that they can be preserved and remembered tomorrow."David Mc Ginty, masters student International Development, National University of Ireland, Galway. Oral History Workshop participant August 2023.
" As a teacher, Angela always pushed my cohort to seize new opportunities. For example, last summer when she was conducting research on oral history on Bere Island, West Cork, they enquired for students to help. Under Angela's supervision, myself and a few other students took the opportunity to transcribe interviews. When undertaking this project, they advocated for us to the point where we received pay for the work we did whilst also supporting us when there were challenging times. As a lecturer, you can instantly tell she is passionate about her work. Moreover, they are dedicated and engaged when it comes to her students' learning, an example being organising fieldtrips to give us a greater appreciation of her modules topics. Never once has Angela not been approachable whether it be an academic enquiry or a chat."Student of 'Place, Memory and Meaning' Sheffield Hallam University June 2023.
" Angela is approachable, caring, kind and understanding. Taking time with each student individually to ensure everyone know what they are doing and what she can do to help. Angela interacts with students during lectures to achieve a more engaging lecture which aids our understanding. Angela genuinely understands and acknowledges the pressures we are under as students and offers support where she can e.g. working with the module leader and board to move a deadline to support us. Angela has a genuine passion for her subject which resonates with the students and is continuing to work within the subject during retirement. Student on MSc Urban Planning Sheffield Hallam University June 2023.
“It was a brilliant opportunity to learn more about oral histories. As a young person, I had assumed it wasn't a group for me. But I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the opportunities available to me hopefully more young people can engage in this in the future.”
“Eye opening. Informative and inspiring us as a family to connect and engage with oral history projects and events in the future great work, Angela!”
“Very interesting. Really enjoyed it. Thank you.”
“Brilliant as usual.”
“Most informative. A feeling of connection. The start of something very positive. Well done!”
“Disappointed that I had not engaged with this project in the last 18 months. Hope to become much more involved in the future.”
“It was very informative interesting and interactive. Would love to get more involved.”
“Excellent. I know I have a lot of work to do.”
Excellent project. Well done. Very informative.
“This was a very interesting morning. Very informative. Would like to see more events like this.”
It was all very informative. Angela gave a great presentation. I have a better understanding of oral heritage. Thank you.
“It was a valuable workshop. And most interesting and enjoyable morning. Look forward to attending more of the same. Good idea to include more unheard voices."
“Excellent. I am very glad I came. Enthused and more. Thank you.”
“Presentations were very good.”
“Excellent event. Informative inclusive and has definitely sparked my interest in oral history of the area.”
“I thought today that I was abnormal about trying to hold on to the past and now I'm grateful that it is a normal feeling."
Feedback from participants in the 'Celebration Of Oral History Workshop' funded by the Heritage Council 24th August 2024 Achill Island, Co Mayo Ireland facilitated by Dr Angela Maye-Banbury, Founder Of Oral History Made Easy & Chairperson Achill Oral Histories.