Historian how-to
How to Conduct an Oral History Interview
Oral histories preserve voices.
Quick answer
Oral histories preserve voices. In short: get; research; ask, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Get consent.
Research beforehand.
Ask open questions.
Listen more than talk.
Record clearly.
Archive with release forms.
Safety reminders for historians
- Handle documents carefully
- Get oral history consent
- Protect sensitive records
- Follow site safety
Key terms
Primary source · Secondary source · Oral history · Public history · Archive · National Register: see the full historian glossary.