Education and Technology

Without education, the museum visitors’ understanding of the photographs will be limited to their visual interpretation. The civil rights movement has so much hidden history that cannot only be illustrated through photographs. To truly indulge oneself in this gallery, we will incorporate educational material so the visitors will leave more informed than when they arrived. 

Our education plan is to bring that context to light by providing the patron with a real, unedited view of the people and places featured in the photographs. Using the model of Muzzy Lane Software, our patrons will explore the simulated settings of the photographs before the photographs were taken. A click on a specific location on the United States map will display the photos in our galleries that were taken at that location. Once the patron clicks on an image, they will be taken to a scene and will have the ability to walk around. Civil rights activists such as James Baldwin; Martin Luther King, Jr.; Coretta Scott King; and Maynard Jackson will speak to the patron upon request. Audio and video will also be scattered throughout the scenes. We hope that this education model will explicitly display the humanity of those who participated in the civil rights movement, put the patron in the position of an activist during this time, and truly reveal the calm before the storm. 

This information is important because it helps us share history with our visitors. Not only would they be leaving with an understanding of the civil rights movement, but also with a memorable experience. Hands-on education is vital for all ages. By utilizing the technological options that will be explained next, participants will be given an opportunity to live through these historical events. Schools, summer camps, and various organizations can incorporate this exhibition into their curriculum. Adult visitors can use the powerful imagery as an opportunity to start conversations about racial injustice in their communities.

Muzzy Lane Products: 

http://www.muzzylane.com/products/

Examples of audio that will be in our education program:

Our main technology will be a sensor similar to those used in Xbox Kinect. It will be located in a circular, open-concept room with a wall-to-wall screen where users can have a memorable interactive experience. When you walk up, there will be markings to tell you where to stand. Your presence will be sensed, and you will be greeted by life-size holograms of historical figures showcased in this exhibition. The screen will be divided into small walls so participants can have their own space to observe the program without being disturbed. 

If this source of technology is not ideal for some visitors, there is another option. We will have Oculus Virtual Reality headsets ready for anyone who would like to use them. These devices will give visitors a self-guided virtual tour that will allow them to talk to the same historical people as the Kinect sensor program. The headsets are lightweight and can be adjusted, allowing all age groups to use them. For visitors who need accessibility adjustments, the Oculus device is portable and can be brought to them. Everyone who visits will be able to have the choice to participate, no matter their physical capabilities. Both systems will have demonstrations on how to use them.

With technology and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) being a vital focus in school curriculums, this is a great way to introduce children to the civil rights movement. With the growth of technology, not only is this system great for children, but older ages as well. This is a immersive program. Visitors can form a personal connection with the historical figures involved in the movement. Utilizing these pieces of technology gives the term “screen time” a positive connotation. Everyone is welcome to take part in the many fun educational activities this exhibition has to offer.

Education and Technology