98134 - Laboratory of Medievalism (1) (LM)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student is able to organise and collect complex information in a coherent way, to apply methods of critical analysis, preservation and enhancement of historical memory. He/she is able to identify problems and challenges arising from the use of digital technologies and to use information sources appropriately to solve them”.

Course contents

N.B.: classes will start on 17 February 2025

 

The laboratory offers the possibility of active training and participation to students interested in starting or improving their knowledge of aspects related to the " profession of historian " in relation to new technologies, within the project MemoBo. Un mare magnum di possibilità: i Memoriali bolognesi e la loro schedatura (1265-1452).

The laboratory consists of two phases:

1. Classes presenting the source (from a historical, palaeographical and diplomatic point of view) and highlighting the problems and challenges posed by the work of indexing large series of unpublished medieval documents, also by illustrating similar databases and the software used in the research project. The individual lectures will be given by members of the MemoBo project and experts in the various fields. The complete schedule of lectures will be made available at the beginning of the course.
2. Participants will be guided to practice indexing some of the acts contained in the Memoriali, in order to put into practice what they have learnt and "touch with their hands" the possibilities offered by new technologies in the management and analysis of historical data.
3. Introduction and exercises on handwritten text recognition (HTR) software

The workshop is compulsory attendance: at least 75% of the lessons must be attended.

Given the topics covered, at least a basic knowledge of Latin is recommended.

Readings/Bibliography

The 'practical' purpose and compulsory attendance do not imply a compulsory bibliography.

However, we recommend reading:

I memoriali del comune di Bologna. Storia, diritto, letteratura, a cura di M. Giansante, Bologna, Il Chiostro dei Celestini - Amici dell’Archivio di Stato di Bologna, 2017

Teaching methods

• Lectures by experts from different fields
• Guided and face-to-face illustration and exercises on project databases

Lessons will be held in a classroom equipped with computers at each workstation. 

 

As concerns the teaching methods of this course unit, all students must attend Module 1, 2 [https://www.unibo.it/en/services-and-opportunities/health-and-assistance/health-and-safety/online-course-on-health-and-safety-in-study-and-internship-areas] on Health and Safety online

Assessment methods

The outcome of the workshop will be evaluated through active participation and practice in the filing exercise proposed during the course.

Teaching tools

• Power point
• Accessing and using the project database
• Accessing and using HTR software

Links to further information

https://site.unibo.it/memobo/it

Office hours

See the website of Tommaso Duranti