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ENG/HIST 20A: Violent Resistance: American Political Violence and Its Rhetorics

Below is a compilation of optional digital tools. Some tools will help you analyze datasets; others will help you showcase your research. This list is by no means complete. Feel free to explore these guides, research alternatives, and ask questions! If you decide to create a digital project, Natalie Susmann can help you decide on a platform or toolkit, as well as develop a time management plan. 

StoryMaps

StoryMaps is a dynamic digital interface for displaying texts, images, maps, and videos. Readers can scroll through your narrative; a map will simultaneously pan to key locations. There are a ton of resources available for learning how to create a StoryMap. You can also create an appointment with Natalie Susmann. Feel free to email me if you don't find a slot. Alex Willet (GIS Librarian) can also offer guidance. That said, don't be intimidated by the technology! StoryMaps provides you with templates and easy-to-follow instructions. 

To get started creating a StoryMap, check out this library guide!

Check out some example projects below. Note that these were created by professional organizations, so your projects will have different time and data-access constraints.

Screenshot of "Decades of Resistance" StoryMap created by Harvard Kennedy School's Research and Library Services.   Screenshot of a StoryMap about Ukrainian women involved in war, created by the International Committee of the Red Cross.  Screenshot of an ESRI-created StoryMap about Black beaches.
     

Designing a Website (Google sites, etc.)

Depending on your project topic, designing a website using Google sites, Wordpress, or other similar platforms may be more appropriate than StoryMaps. We can help you decide which option to choose. Stay tuned for resources! 

Map Design + Analysis

If you're writing a manifesto or creating a video, consider including a professional-looking map. For the beginner, Google Earth or Google Maps is a great option. ArcGIS online is also an option, albeit more time intensive. For a class project of this scale, I recommend using ArcGIS only if you have previous experience. If you are interested in ArcGIS, you can contact me or Alex Willet, the GIS librarian

Timelines

Many of you will be working with historical information that spans over many hours, days, or years. Whatever the timeframe, consider presenting your information on an easy-to-read timeline that you can share or embed in a digital project. 

Here's my demo example, which tracks events during the Ukrainian War:

 

To get started, check out this guide. You'll see step-by-step tutorials and videos to help create your own timeline!