Research Project


For your research project, you will profile a uniquely Californian “place.” This "place" could be a park, a neighborhood, a church, a restaurant, a trail, even a small town. You will synthesize this place’s history, cultural significance, future development, along your own personal observations and experiences, into an informative profile.

Steps: 

  1. Picking the place: Think of those "only in California" places that speak to what we value and how we live. For example, Hearst Castle, Muir Woods, or Warner Bros. Studios are all places you aren't likely to find anywhere else. And each of those places adds its own unique feel to the state. If the place you've chosen could as easily exist in New York or Florida or Montana, then maybe consider a new location. Also, keep in mind that you must spend time there, so choose your location accordingly.
  2. Researching the place: This includes examining its historical and cultural significance. For instance, what historical importance does your location hold? How does it add to the cultural landscape of California? Also, will this location be as it is today in 20 years? Are there plans for future development? It is highly recommend you do your research before you visit your place as doing so will greatly enhance your visit.
  3. Going to the place: You are required to spend at least three hours in this locale—if that is not possible, please see me. When you come to your place, try to "absorb" it. For example, what feelings does this place evoke in you? What is there to look at, what is there to explore? How does one fully engage this place? Think of this place in sensory terms: sight, touch, taste, sound, smell. It is important you take extensive notes.
  4. Writing about the place: Research and experience will come together in a 15-slide multimedia presentation profiling the uniquely Californian aspects of this place. It will also include an interview with a person intimately associated with that place, such as a retailer, tour guide, or resident.
Requirements: 
  • Be a minimum of 15 slides (not including cover slide and works cited) with no less than eight outside sources
  • Contain at least two multimedia clips, no longer than two minutes each
  • Have cohesive design, including illustrations, that highlights the unique style of your place
  • Contextualize your locale’s place in California history and culture
  • Have clean spelling and grammar
  • Notes: In choosing your place, be realistic about logistics, including your time constraints for the remainder of the semester
  • Before your visit and interview, do your homework. Learn as much as you can about your locale before you visit and conduct your interview. Of course, always be respectful of the place and people.
  • VERY IMPORTANT: 
    • Though Covid-19 restrictions are greatly loosened throughout the state, please still maintain all safety precautions when visiting your locale. Use your discretion, but please err on the side of caution. 
    • If your visit involves an activity, you may NOT engage in any that are dangerous or illegal

Schedule:

  • Week 12: Los Angeles - Fri 4.14
    • Due: DRAFT RESEARCH PROJECT (UP TO SLIDE 3)
  • Week 13: Santa Barbara - Fri 4.21
    • Due: REFLECTION 4; DRAFT RESEARCH PROJECT (UP TO SLIDE 6)
  • Week 14: San Francisco - Fri 4.28
    • Due: DRAFT RESEARCH PROJECT (UP TO SLIDE 9)
  • Week 15: Eureka - Fri 5.5
    • Due: REFLECTION 5; DRAFT RESEARCH PROJECT (UP TO SLIDE 12)
  • Week 16: Santa Monica - Fri 5.12
    • Due: RESEARCH PROJECT (FINAL DRAFT)