Bringing Stories of History to Life: How Interactive Biographies Promote Student Learning in Diverse Settings

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Abstract

This study examines students’ engagement with an interactive technology that enables real-time video conversations with witnesses and survivors of the Holocaust, with a particular focus on exploring differences in students’ experiences in museums and classrooms. As educators seek out ways to prepare students to live in an increasingly complex world, Interactive Biographies can be a useful tool to help students develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes to become more responsible, global citizens. The study shows that Interactive Biographies facilitate strong connections between students and the stories of survivors, promoting student learning and historical empathy regardless of educational setting. But, this study also presents important considerations in the role that contextual factors play in ensuring that the desired outcomes are realized.

Author

• Karen A. Kim, University of Southern California