The Eastern People of Color History Initiative
Malana and I currently serve as the data entry managers for The Eastern People of Color History Initiative's Notion database. Notion is note-taking software that Mr. Goodwny and the Eastern People of Color History Initiative reconfigured into a database for historical records, citations, names, and locations.
The Begining
Before I even set my eyes on the Notion database, Mr. Goodwyn and The Eastern People of Color History Initiative wanted to familiarize me with the previous research they accomplished. A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet contained this research as I and Malana was tasked to transfer the data from the spreadsheet to Notion. In addition, we were responsible for adding any extra data we found while researching the Custis's records. This seems quite the task, but Mr. Goodwyn used a lesson plan to teach us how to use different tools while we explored and learned about the Custis. Thanks to the lesson plan, I managed to learn how to use FamilySearch while learning how expansive the Custis family was, and Notion while working through the spreadsheet.
The Process
After Mr. Goodwyn's lesson plan, I smoothly fitted into my data management role. Through using Notion to transfer spreadsheet data, I quickly picked up how to use different functions of Notion too. I created different pages, changed page functions, changed icons for website organization, and added tables for extra data Mr. Goodwyn wanted to add. These added responsibilities weren't much of an issue due to my experience with web design. However, I also became the initiative's website and technology manager thanks to my experience.
The Reflection
My experience so far in working with the Notion data has allowed me to learn valuable knowledge on Virginian history and different tools within the field of history. The knowledge I gained about the Custis's allows me to deepen my understanding of Virginian history and African American history as a whole. As a student and professional, I can use such information to improve my analysis of Virginian history beyond common knowledge. Allowing me to add more to classroom research and organizations looking for African American history during the American colonial period.
The experience with Notion also added to my list of web software I am proficient in using for research. I use Notion as a database instead of a place to present research like WordPress and Omeka. This diversified my use of online resources as a young historian, making my skills valuable for more extensive research. Instead of knowing how to present data, I can assist different organizations with housing data as a student or professional.
