The potential of internet-based techniques for heritage interpretation

Abstract

This paper deals with the use of internet-based techniques in the context of applied heritage interpretation, using an old industrial area in central Germany as a case study example. The paper sets out basic principles of heritage interpretation, which are then contrasted to the special qualities of internet-based techniques. Potential advantages and disadvantages of using internet-based techniques in heritage interpretation are discussed. The paper then focuses on the development of heritage interpretation for the town and region of Schöningen, where the defining industry of open-cast brown coal mining is gradually being replaced. Tourism is likely to focus on the special cultural heritage of this region, which includes an important prehistoric site and 400.000 year old wooden spear found in the mining area. Different internet technologies are discussed in the context of realising ideas of heritage interpretation, followed by suggestions for practical implementation. Despite the undoubted uses of internet-based techniques and resulting benefits for heritage interpretation however, we conclude that internet-based approaches can at best supplement approaches taking place in the landscape itself.