Class Visits
In response to the challenges posed by COVID-19, Harvard University is transitioning to virtual instruction for graduate and undergraduate classes. Not sure how to integrate special collections instruction into virtual teaching? We’re here to help! Houghton Library offers robust resources for teaching and learning with our collections remotely. As you plan for your fall courses, we’re here to support you and your students.
Remote teaching with Houghton can help your students:
Discover relevant sources
- Archivist- and librarian-led instruction on digital search and discovery available via video, guides, or in-class discussion
- On-demand, no-cost digitization of available material for teaching and learning as our highest priority
- Finding Your Way Through Finding Aids, an easy-to-use guide to navigating special collections research
Understand material culture
- DIY instruction on making models to explore letterlocking and early printing formats
- Live demonstrations to learn bibliographical vocabulary and methods of analysis
Analyze primary sources
- Discussion facilitation and assignment prompts to guide students through source interpretation in the context of your course
- Support for collaborative digital annotation tools for students to add context, references, and questions
Create and curate
- Support and planning for student-led digital curation of exhibits and collections, similar to our Other[ed] Colonial Voices project
- Assistance planning and providing digital material for creative reuse in projects ranging from collage to performance
These are only a few examples of topics and activities we can help you with, all of which can be offered synchronously or asynchronously to fit your class plan. Many can be accomplished in a single session, but we can also work with you on longer-term collaborations. Please request a class or get in touch with us with at least 4 weeks’ notice if you’re interested in any of the above, or if you’d like to work with us on other ways to bring Houghton collections into your classes.
Additional Resources
Teach Remotely Learn best practices, available tools, and how to get support for teaching your classes online.
Library Resources Connect seamlessly through direct engagement with library staff and access to digital content