The passage of time presents a growing challenge for the preservation of the historical memory of the Holocaust. With the gradual disappearance of the remaining survivors, it becomes increasingly difficult to transmit first-hand testimonies to future generations. Artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) have emerged as innovative solutions to keep these memories alive.
These technologies make it possible to create digital testimonials based on recordings of Holocaust survivors who have told their stories and answered questions. VR is used to provide a visual, three-dimensional representation of the survivor, allowing for an immersive experience. Combining natural language processing with VR allows museum visitors a virtual experience of not only seeing and hearing these virtual representations of survivors as they tell their stories, based on their actual testimonials, but also to converse with them. AI, using natural language processing, interprets user questions and searches the database of recorded testimonials for appropriate answers.
Museums in the UK, US, Argentina and Australia have already implemented this technology, allowing visitors to interact with testimonials from Holocaust survivors.
Holocaust Survivors Tell Their Stories Through Interactive 3D Holograms
Kel: National Holocaust Centre (Promo)
Dimensions in Testimony | USC Shoah Foundation
While AI and VR offer exciting opportunities for the preservation of historical memory, it is essential to consider the wider ramifications of this educational technique. Its main advantage lies in the possibility of preserving and sharing first-hand testimonies, even after the survivors have passed away. At the same time, it raises some concerns. The technological mediation brings the authenticity of the experience into question; after all, digital testimonials are ultimately algorithm-based recreations. Furthermore, the "replacement" of the survivors with machines raises issues of humanity and dignity in the representation of the survivors’ experiences. On a more practical level, the AI may not be able to adequately answer all questions, and the quality of the VR experience may vary depending on the layout and technical sophistication of the facility.
It is essential to ensure that the dignity of survivors is respected and that the experience provides an accurate and comprehensive representation of their experiences. It's also crucial to ensure that technology doesn't trivialize the experiences or reduce them to curiosities.
The implementation of AI and VR in Holocaust education highlights the need to address the challenges entailed in innovative approaches to education. With all their advantages, the possible negative consequences of the implementation of these technologies and the ethical responsibility that it entails must be carefully considered. Education and training in innovation are essential to address these challenges effectively. Knowing about similar projects around the world, like the ones mentioned above, can be inspiring and shed light on the tools available, the impact that such solutions can have, and the ethical considerations involved.
AI and VR offer innovative solutions to keep the memory of Holocaust survivors alive in an ever-changing world. By taking a balanced and informed approach, we can preserve the historical memory of the Holocaust and ensure that the lessons learned remain relevant for future generations.
Dr. Jonathan Mirvis, a leader in entrepreneurship and educational innovation, and a member of the professional staff of the International Master's Degree in Jewish Education at the Melton Center, offers valuable perspectives on how to face the challenges in education from an innovative perspective. We invite you to participate in a conference that will be given on April 23 at 7:30 pm (Israel time) on The Entrepreneurial Teacher, an exciting challenge for Jewish educators. Click here[1] to sign up.
Source: Times of Israel
Collaboration: Chat GPT