Pre- and post-interview audio recordings with seniors – Partners asked the senior citizens questions regarding their experience being interviewed by the students, both before and after the students interviewed and audio recorded them. They then reviewed the recordings listening for changes in tone and pitch, seniors’ desire for future engagement with youth, whether student names were mentioned as an indicator of personal connection, etc.
Final Outcomes of Culture Keepers Partners identified these final outcomes: Youth gained meaningful knowledge about Germantown history. The students learned a lot from the walking tour and from talking to the seniors. They were able to restate some important historical facts. The students were exposed to the historical society and are aware of the archives and collections for future research. They have new knowledge of Germantown’s history and its importance to the overall American history. Youth see themselves as contributors to and participants in civic life. The students clearly felt important during the interviews and shared that it is a special thing to have the responsibility of hearing another person’s story. They seemed to grasp that there is value in being actively involved in things outside of themselves. There is hope that their civic interests will extend into greater roles for them with more exposure.
14
Animating Democracy / Americans for the Arts
I was so scared [to perform], I didn’t think I could do it. But I am so proud of myself...the people liked it, they liked me! I like this - being in front of people and I could do it again. I’m so thankful to Ms. Yolanda for her help. Malik J.