Matt Dilworth

Matt Dilworth

Higher Testing

Higher Testing

, Library Resources, Matt Dilworth
Testing is a vital part of the educational process; verifying the mastery of skills needed to proceed.  Undergraduates have typically taken many tests on the way to becoming or earning advance credit as a student, including the SAT, ACT, or CLEP tests.  For those students who move beyond a Bachelor’s degree, there are other, more advanced tests required. Those interested in specialized graduate study are generally acutely aware of the requirements and expectations of their desired field, and tailor their undergraduate experience to prepare them for it – often referred to colloquially by phrases such as being on a ‘pre-law’ or ‘pre-med’ or ‘pre-business’ track, although what that entails can be quite informal.  For example, someone aspiring to be a … Continued
Counting on the Census

Counting on the Census

, Library Resources, Matt Dilworth
With a count of 331,449,281 residents, the 24th decennial Census of the United States is beginning to release the newest data about the current demographics of our country.  This procedure, a Constitutionally-mandated enumeration of the citizens and residents of the country, is a vital research tool – but it is also a source of conflict and controversy.  Since many consequential issues hinge on the results of the Census – principally the apportionment of representatives in the Congress and funding for government programs that include roads, schools, health, and emergency services – it has become a flashpoint for competing (and highly politicized) ideologies. The Census has long been plagued by controversy.  Both George Washington and Thomas Jeffeson thought the original 1790 … Continued
Much Ado about Shakespeare

Much Ado about Shakespeare

, , Library Resources, Matt Dilworth, Programs
More than 450 years after William Shakespeare’s birth, the Bard of Avon remains one of the most indelible and influential authors of all time.  His works continue to find relevance and meaning today; as their subtlety and wit and understanding of human drives and foibles offer a mirror which still cogently reflects society (as seen in numerous adaptions that easily translate the action to modern settings).  His writings – principally plays, sonnets, and poems – remain among the most widely reproduced writings in history, and modern literature is full of allusions to his texts.  His unparalleled literary influence supports contemporary poet Ben Jonson’s analysis that Shakespeare was “not of an age, but for all time”. Shakespeare’s rich, colorful language is … Continued
Independent but Intertwined

Independent but Intertwined

, Library Resources, Matt Dilworth
On July 4th, Americans celebrate our Independence Day, and the anniversary of our declaration of ‘no more rule by redcoats’.  At the time – a mere 245 years ago – the United States and Great Britain were bitter enemies.  But today, there is a ‘Special Relationship’ between the two, and both affirm the other as their most important foreign ally.  What would become the United States was hardly the only territory that chafed under the rule of the British Empire.  The peoples of Ireland, India, China, Apartheid South Africa, Aborigines in Australia, and more had grievences with the Crown.  Immediately after the Revolutionary War, average Americans viewed Great Britain as synonymous with everything bad in the world, and vice versa.  … Continued
Primary Science

Primary Science

, Library Resources, Matt Dilworth, Research
The use of primary sources is a staple of academic research – these are sources created by someone involved in the matter being described.  In the humanities, these typically take the form of letters, diaries, or the like – for the historian, a diary is usually valued more than a book written by someone who wasn’t involved.  This isn’t to say that secondary sources have no worth, as those can often take a longer or more nuanced view than that of a person in the thick of things – but the value of a direct witness cannot be understated.  Numerous databases are built around these types of materials, like American Civil War: Letters and Diaries, Gale Primary Sources, or The … Continued