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About The Courses
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We offer six-week online seminars via Zoom. Each seminar meets once a week for 90-minute sessions. You meet personally with your instructor, not a prerecorded video, teaching assistant, or robot.
I will offer some preliminary thoughts by way of lecture, accompanied by images or other digital files to spur reflection, and then open the session to discussion, questions, and comments, just like a graduate-level seminar. Readings will be suggested, but are not mandatory. Students may choose to do the readings or not as their schedule and interest allows. No tests, no assignments, no exams, and no credentials will be offered. |
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Each class is capped at 15 students maximum. Class “seats” are reserved on a strict first-come, first-served basis. If you miss out on a class in which you are interested, rest assured that it will be offered again on rotation in the near future.
There are no requirements. You do not have to possess a college degree, or indeed, even consider yourself particularly well-informed. All you need is curiosity and a reliable internet connection. Whether you're a teacher, a journalist, or a history buff, anyone seeking to extend their education and deepen their understanding of U.S. history is welcome. You may refer to our course calendar to select the course in which you are interested. Payment information will be provided, followed by the classroom link that is sent to your inbox. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
"I have a particular event or question that I need to address for a professional or other reason. Will it be covered?"
I can’t guarantee that we’ll cover everything, but if there is a particular point of curiosity that you have, please do let me know. I can very often incorporate new material, new ideas, and new examples into a class presentation. Indeed, that is one of the basic assumptions of this approach, that narratives are infinitely expandable and capable of incorporating new ideas and perspectives.
"What if I can’t do the reading?"
That’s not a problem, because there are no assignments! Familiarity with the readings prior to a class meeting may help you understand material better, but none of my presentations have been crafted to require prior reading. For many students, compiling a reading list for later reference is one of the benefits of FractalPast.
"I’ve never liked to speak up in class."
You don’t have to! No participation grades here! Learning is not just an endeavor for extroverts. Contribute, make a point, or merely listen however you see fit!
"I’m concerned that you didn’t include something or other in your presentation."
I do operate from a presumption that most of us have some familiarity with the past. Hence I don’t always feel the need to cover well-worn territory. Different examples of, or counter-examples to, that which is familiar can often bring history to life in fresh and exciting ways. That said, please do share with me any concerns you have, or particular interests you maintain, and I will do my best to incorporate those in our class discussions.
"This wasn’t the version of history I learned in school."
My long study of history has convinced me that, whatever actors in the past said or did, how we understand those actors is very much a product of our contemporary moment: the questions we have, the values that we bring to our judgments, and the diverse perspectives that we bring to bear. The more of those we entertain, the more variegated the past becomes, the richer the lessons the past has to disclose to us. Far from promoting an official or authorized version of history, I believe we should be seeking out multiple interpretations, weighing and sifting evidence and argumentation, and producing a richer historical tapestry. Such a view requires more effort but is ultimately much more rewarding.
Digital Etiquette
One silver lining to the Covid-19 pandemic is that many of us have become naturalized to the etiquette of digital meetings. For others, it’s a work in progress.
Please be mindful of the status of your microphone at all times. Usually, it’s considered best practice to have your microphone muted, especially if background noises such as young children, pets, or street noises threaten to flare at any moment. You can always unmute your microphone when you want to contribute to class discussion.
Students are not required to have their video cameras turned on. Many people prefer to “lurk” on class discussions with their cameras off, and that is perfectly acceptable. However, please do be mindful that, as in all human interaction, being able to see your face, and to put a face to a voice, enhances the community of the digital space and promotes comity, interaction, and mutual respect. As with your microphone, please do remain mindful of possible background distractions, roommates, partners, children, or pets who may burst into view unexpectedly.
Your instructor endeavors to preserve a friendly and equitable digital space and will mute microphones or cameras as necessary to preserve good order.
Please be mindful of the status of your microphone at all times. Usually, it’s considered best practice to have your microphone muted, especially if background noises such as young children, pets, or street noises threaten to flare at any moment. You can always unmute your microphone when you want to contribute to class discussion.
Students are not required to have their video cameras turned on. Many people prefer to “lurk” on class discussions with their cameras off, and that is perfectly acceptable. However, please do be mindful that, as in all human interaction, being able to see your face, and to put a face to a voice, enhances the community of the digital space and promotes comity, interaction, and mutual respect. As with your microphone, please do remain mindful of possible background distractions, roommates, partners, children, or pets who may burst into view unexpectedly.
Your instructor endeavors to preserve a friendly and equitable digital space and will mute microphones or cameras as necessary to preserve good order.
Terms and Conditions
Agreeing to FractalPast's Terms and Conditions is required before registering for courses. Click here to read our terms.