Included in the Listen Now: Oral History Project curriculum are general instructions, with guidance, advice, and question ideas. There’s also a video introduction recorded by Kentucky Poet Laureate Silas House. He said, as he was growing up, he loved being around older people in his family and community.
"My grandparents, my great-aunts and uncles, my neighbors - all of these people taught me important lessons about gardening, fishing, being a better person," said House. "They gave me knowledge that has been important to me throughout my life."
Over the past century, age segregation in the US has led to a decrease in meaningful cross-generational relationships. Work, school, and social life often sort people into rigid categories by age, making it harder for youth and elders to connect and communicate. House hopes that the Listen Now: Oral History Project can help bridge that gap.
"This project is a chance for teachers to encourage you to do that; to encourage you to talk to the elders in your life, and/or to find elders in your life," said House.
The curriculum is part of House's platform as the 2023-2024 Kentucky Poet Laureate. In addition to making cross-generational connections, House said students will be preserving the history of their families and communities.
"You will help to tell the story of Kentucky as it really is."