Oral History Project: GUIDELINES FOR RECORDING AN INTERVIEW Oral history interviews can bring history to life. It can be a very satisfying project for those interviewed as well as the interviewers. Preparation will help make your project more fun for you - the interviewer - and the person you interview. 1. Set up a time and place to meet with your interview subject. 2. Know how to use your tape recorder. Practice recording a conversation with a friend or family member so that you're comfortable with the process. Speaking clearly and precisely helps. Make sure the volume (sound level) is okay. 3. Write a list of questions to ask your interview subject. Use questions that require more than a "Yes" or "No" answer. For example, ask "What was this neighborhood like when you were growing up?" instead of "Did you like growing up here?" Start with general questions, like "What was it like here during World War II?" or "How was life different for girls than for boys?" Then look for specific information, like "How did the war effect your life?" or "Why did you decide to join the civil rights movement?" 4. When it's time to interview your subject, make sure you are there promptly. Bring a blank 60 minute tape and extra batteries. And don't forget your list of questions! 5. Always treat the person you are interviewing politely and respectfully. Make sure you speak clearly. Do a practice question to make sure the tape recorder is working. 6. Always start the tape by speaking your name, your subject's name, the time, and the date into the recorder. Don't forget to also label the tape on the outside. 7. Understand that your list of questions is a guideline for you to follow. Sometimes the person being interviewed has a special story he or she would like to tell. Ask directly: "Do you have a special story you'd like to have recorded? Would you share it with me?" Sometimes these stories are funny, but sometimes they are sad. Be prepared for the unexpected. 8. Keep your recording session to about 30 or 40 minutes. A lengthy interview can be very tiring for you and the person you are interviewing. 9. Make sure you thank your subject when you are finished. Remember, you could not do this project without their cooperation.