Frequently Asked Questions about Class Sessions
The immensely rich primary sources collected in Special Collections and University Archives can enrich and enliven almost any subject. We believe that these materials are here to be used, in any way that can further the educational mission of San Diego State University. Working with early editions, original documents, diaries, and letters often engages the undergraduate or graduate student in exciting ways— assumptions are challenged, texts and ideas are contextualized, and history becomes tangible.
- What is a class session in Special Collections like? Classes in Special Collections vary widely. They can be simple show-and-tells, general introductions to using primary sources, or multi-session courses using our materials. Librarians in the department offer several different approaches to and lesson plans for using our materials, based on the concepts of contextualizing, authenticating, investigating, and criticizing historical documents. We are also able to provide overviews of our holdings in particular subject areas, and/or to provide instruction about how to locate primary sources and Special Collections material in the library catalog. If you would like to teach using materials in Special Collections or University Archives, we are able to provide assistance in locating suitable materials within our collections. We are happy to speak with you about the best approach to and materials for your class. For more information, contact us.
- Will my students get to touch the materials, or just look at them? We believe strongly that students visiting our department for a class should have hands-on time with materials so that they can learn to become active users of primary sources. This direct engagement with primary documents often inspires new and special understandings of the concepts studied in class, enriching and invigorating their educational experiences. Though some materials (very few) may not be handled due to fragility, we make every attempt to provide a hands-on experience.
- How many students can I bring? At this time, we are able to accommodate up to 35 students in Special Collections and University Archives. However, if you have a larger class, we are happy to speak with you about dividing the class into smaller groups.
- I know of a book/collection I want my students to look at for a project. Can I have them come in to see it? We will gladly place items on reserve for your class. Students who come into the department will need to register as researchers and become familiar with our guidelines .
- When can I have my class in Special Collections? To avoid scheduling conflicts, we ask that you make your class arrangements with us as far in advance as possible, and no less than two weeks prior to the class visit. Our hours during Fall and Spring semesters are Monday-Tuesday, 10:00am - 7:00pm, and Wednesday-Friday, 10:00am – 5:00pm. Please contact us if you wish to discuss other scheduling needs.
- Is there anything you need from me? It’s always helpful for us to have a copy of your syllabus, and a count of how many people are in your class. A pre-class meeting to discuss your wishes for the class is also helpful.
- What if I have special needs? We wish to fully include persons with disabilities in all activities. Please let us know if you need any special accommodations for students in your course.
The immensely rich primary sources collected in Special Collections and University Archives can enrich and enliven almost any subject. We believe that these materials are here to be used, in any way that can further the educational mission of San Diego State University. Working with early editions, original documents, diaries, and letters often engages the undergraduate or graduate student in exciting ways— assumptions are challenged, texts and ideas are contextualized, and history becomes tangible.