Echoes of the Past, Digital Voices: Public History in the Technological Era
University of Pennsylvania students locate books on the stacks at the new Charles Patterson Van Pelt Library in 1962. (Photo by Authenticated News/Archive Photos/Getty Images)
What is the role of technology in the production of public history?
What is the most engaging use of technology in public history?
Technology plays a multifaceted role in the production of public history, enabling broader accessibility and interactive engagement.
The most engaging use of technology in public history lies in its capacity to foster immersive and participatory experiences.
Technology in Public History:
Technology dramatically changes how we create and share history. Online tools let us digitize archives, build virtual exhibits, and create interactive maps, making history accessible to everyone. This also allows communities to contribute their own stories, creating a more complete picture of the past. For example, during debates about historical monuments, digital tools can provide context and diverse viewpoints, encouraging informed discussions.
Engaging with History:
The most impactful use of technology is creating immersive experiences. AR and VR can transport people to historical moments, building emotional connections. Virtual tours, especially during the pandemic, brought historical sites to people’s homes. This addresses the “digital divide” (Hurley, 2016) by reaching wider audiences. Digital platforms also foster community dialogue (Kelland, 2016), which is crucial for understanding complex historical issues today.
The digital age has fundamentally reshaped public history, offering both transformative opportunities and persistent challenges. Platforms like online archives and virtual exhibits democratize access to historical narratives, extending their reach beyond traditional museum walls. This allows for broader community engagement, fostering a more inclusive and representative understanding of the past.
Lara Kelland, “Digital Community Engagement across the Divides,” National Council on Public History(blog), 20 April 2016