Community Programs

Collecting Voices: Oral History Workshop

Participants develop a foundational understanding of oral history and conducting oral history interviews through hands-on activities. The workshop addresses oral history ethics, and offers advice based on the MHSO’s experience conducting oral history interviews. Participants listen to examples from the MHSO collection, and apply what they learn by conducting interviews using digital voice recorders.

This workshop is intended as an introduction and “how-to” for groups undertaking an oral history project. We encourage groups to give us some background on the project when booking the workshop to allow us to tailor the workshop to your needs.

The workshop is available in a modified format for youth (ages 13-17).

Participants receive a copy of the MHSO’s publication Oral Testimony and Community History: A Guide, included in workshop fees.

Length: 2.5 hours
Cost: $50.00 per participant. Reduced rates are available for non-profit organizations.
Location: 901 Lawrence Avenue West, suite 307
Group size: recommended 4-12 participants

Family Stories, Treasured Memories (ages 10-15)

Participants learn about settlement experiences in Toronto through primary sources and original research. Students will work with historical photographs and oral histories from the MHSO collection.

This workshop is intended for youth (ages 10-15), and will introduce them to ideas of oral history, interviewing techniques, and primary sources.

The workshop is also available as a school program.

Length: 2 hours
Cost: $12.00 per participant. Reduced rates are available for non-profit organizations.
Location: 901 Lawrence Avenue West, suite 307
Group size: recommended 4-12 participants