AI-powered Platform for Cultural Heritage Education
Sara Ferretti, Università degli studi di Perugia (Italy)
Abstract
This study presents the conceptualization and development of an innovative AI-driven platform designed to enhance cultural heritage appreciation among primary and secondary school students through Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) technologies, such as Cheshire. Grounded in pedagogical principles, the platform aims to integrate advanced natural language processing (NLP) with tailored educational methodologies to foster historical and artistic literacy in young learners. The platform's architecture incorporates a hybrid model that combines a curated knowledge base of historical and artistic content with generative AI capabilities, enabling dynamic, context-sensitive interactions. By leveraging RAG, the system retrieves accurate and contextually relevant data from extensive repositories, while generative algorithms translate complex information into age-appropriate narratives. This dual approach ensures that students are provided with both reliable and engaging content tailored to their cognitive and developmental stages.
A key feature of the platform is its adaptive learning environment, which utilizes gamification, interactive storytelling, and scaffolded questioning techniques to promote engagement and critical thinking. For younger learners, the platform employs simplified language and visual aids, fostering curiosity and foundational understanding of cultural artifacts. For older students, more nuanced and analytical discussions are introduced, aligning with higher-order cognitive skills as per Bloom's taxonomy. The platform also incorporates inclusivity and accessibility features, such as multimodal content delivery, to accommodate diverse learning needs and preferences. It facilitates collaborative learning experiences, enabling students to explore cultural heritage in group settings, thereby emphasizing social constructivist approaches to education. This project not only underscores the pedagogical potential of AI in cultural education but also addresses contemporary challenges in heritage preservation by engaging younger generations in meaningful, technologically mediated dialogues with the past. Future research will evaluate the platform's efficacy through empirical studies, aiming to refine its capabilities and expand its application to broader educational contexts.
Keywords: Cultural Heritage, Digital Technology, Art, Education