Methods
Teach Comparison Without Certification
This field note is part of the FOBA learning stream. It is meant to orient readers and point toward better source work.
Key points
- Comparison can help learners see chronology, routes, public memory, architecture, records, and place-based patterns.
- Comparison becomes unsafe when it starts certifying identity, descent, legal status, DNA results, or membership.
- A good comparison names what is similar, what is different, and what is not being claimed.
Next steps
- Use two-column comparison notes.
- Add "not proof of identity" language when needed.
- Send stronger comparison claims to Source Review.