The project aims to enhance the skill set of local studies practitioners. The particular focus of this seminar will be on writing and analytical skills.  A day long seminar, 7th October, facilitated by practitioners in research particularly those with an expertise in IT. The focus will be on the how of local studies with an additional emphasis on objectively analysing the source material. The themes are on cartographic analysis, oral history research and the significance of literature as a source for local studies.

Dr Mary Shine Thompson from DCU is a qualified barrister and her recent publications include "Paula Meehan's Dublin- Landscape, community and Poetic Identity as well as contributing to Westmeath: history and Society (Ed.Seamus O Brien) . She is a widely published editor and author.

Dr Michelle Dunne is a native of Collinstown and was recently awarded a PhD in history specialising in folklore. She has contributed to Iarmhi the journal of the Westmeath Archaeological and Historical Society. The county has a rich repository of folkloric material and Dr Dunne will explore how this material can be usefully analysed and utilised by practitioners in local studies. This seminar is particularly important as it is essential that those who undertake local research are equipped to analyse the primary sources critically. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.