International Educational Conference Post-conference publication | Page 40

DAY 2, June 29, 2023

New Technologies in Museums and Memorial Sites

 

On the second day of the conference, six institutions, memorials, and museums were invited

to present the new technological projects they have been implementing for a few years

as well as more recently. Amidst doubts, trials, and successes, they shared with us what they learned from their experiences.

 Bergen-Belsen Memorial - Stephanie Billib (Germany)

Stephanie Billib has been responsible for press and public relations at the Lower Saxony Memorials Foundation since 2009. She manages the public presentation and certain projects of the Bergen-Belsen Memorial in connection with digital strategies and more.

 

In 2012, the Bergen-Belsen Memorial cooperated with the SPECS labs (Synthetic, Perceptive, Emotive, and Cognitive Systems Lab) on a 3D reconstruction project. Originally, it involved creating a 3D video of the former camp, which visitors could watch before their visit to help them understand what to expect. This was especially important because the authentic site had very few remaining traces from its past. The project started as a 3D reconstruction

of the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp as it appeared on April 15, 1945, when it was liberated by the British Army. Over time, it evolved into an immersive and interactive presentation that is linked with a mobile tablet-based application. This innovative approach allows visitors to physically explore the site of the former camp, providing a deeper understanding of the historical spatial structures, including fences, buildings, and camp sections, as they existed within the landscape.

 

Throughout the project's development, the memorial found the value of working

with cross-disciplinary groups, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds

who could offer unique perspectives. The aim was to create a flexible system that could be compatible with different technologies, rather than developing a single tool. During

the process, there was the question of who is the target audience for this tool, ultimately focusing on visiting groups and designing it as an educational support for their guides. There was also the question of whose expectations were to be met while avoiding risky assumptions that could lead in the wrong direction.

 

Visitors use a tablet to navigate and orient themselves on-site. This tool aids

in comprehending the dimensions and connecting with the history of the place.

The exploration of the space is non-linear, allowing visitors to guide themselves and choose their own path. While it encourages visitor participation, it can also hinder their understanding of the site, as individual visitors may lack contextualization for what they see. The tool works better in the context of a guided tour. The memorial strives to strike a balance between providing information and fostering a sense of perception.

 

Overall, based on surveys, visitors have confirmed that this tool is very helpful

for understanding the history of the place and orienting themselves within the space. While both virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) modes are available, they prefer the AR mode because it allows them to see both the virtual and physical space precisely where they are standing.