A range of ThingLink use cases across Historic Environment Scotland
콘
콘텐주
Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the agency that protects Scotland’s history, is making exciting changes using a digital tool called ThingLink. From staff training to tourist guidance, we take a closer look at how HES is using ThingLink in a variety of ways.
What is HES?
HES is an organisation established in 2015 to look after and protect Scotland’s historic buildings and sites. Some of the most famous places you’ll see on your trip to Scotland are Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle, all of which are managed by HES.
What is ThingLink?
ThingLink is an online tool that allows you to add information to images or videos. For example, you can click on a specific part of a picture of a castle to display a description of that part. HES started using this tool in 2021 and surprisingly, they are using it in four different ways!
HES's ThingLink Use Case
1. A fun learning tool for employees
HES's 'Engine Shed' teaches students how to refurbish old buildings. They use ThingLink to teach, using real castles as examples to help students apply what they've learned.
For example, you could create a ThingLink for a picture of a castle called Castle Campbell, and have students click on different parts of the picture to examine the condition of the castle. When they click on a part where a brick has collapsed, they might be asked, “How do we fix this?” and the students can answer based on what they’ve learned.
This way, you can learn vividly without actually going to the castle. In addition, it is very convenient because you can study at any time on a computer in the classroom or on your smartphone at home.
2. Interesting online learning materials for the general public
HES has created a 360-degree virtual tour using ThingLink to showcase traditional Scottish building materials. What does that mean? An online experience that allows you to walk around as if you were actually there.
For example, there is a tour that introduces the grass used for roofing traditional Scottish houses. The tour takes you around a 360-degree view of the grass fields in an area called Comrie Croft. Clicking on a specific part of the screen will show you information about how the grass grows, how it is harvested, and how it is used to make roofs.
In this way, we also introduce other building materials such as wood and slate, providing an experience similar to learning about traditional architecture while traveling in Scotland.
3. Smart Guide Map for Tourists
As tourism reopens post-COVID-19, HES has created smart maps using ThingLink, which are being used at two historic sites: Bonawe Iron Furnace and Blackness Castle.
How does it work? There is a QR code at the entrance to the tourist attraction. When visitors scan this code with their smartphone, an interactive map opens. Clicking on a specific location on the map will give a description of the location and provide guidance on what order to visit.
For example, if you click on the walls on the Blackness Castle map, you'll see a description that says something like "These walls were built in the 16th century and were among the best defensive structures of their time." This map is so popular that over 14,500 people have used it!
HES has also created a virtual tour of Edinburgh Castle for children, which is designed to be a fun way to explore the castle, much like a treasure hunt.
Clicking on the icons hidden in various parts of the castle will reveal interesting stories or quizzes about the place. For example, clicking on the crown-shaped icon will reveal a question like, "This is the room where the kings of Scotland stayed. What was the name of the last king of Scotland?"
You can also freely roam around the castle’s three main areas, making it feel like you’re actually exploring the castle. This virtual tour is so popular with kids that over 10,500 kids have enjoyed it!
In this way, HES is using one tool, ThingLink, in so many different ways. They are educating their staff, educating the public, guiding tourists, and even educating children. This approach could be a good example for other countries that manage historical sites.
Would you like to experience this exciting digital content from HES yourself? Visit the HES website www.historicenvironment.scot to find learning resources available for free. Start your exciting journey through Scotland’s history with ThingLink!
Grow with Learn Today! Discover the latest edutech trends and innovative learning solutions. Learn Today Co., Ltd. has established partnerships with various overseas edutech companies and provides only the best services. By subscribing, you can receive the latest information necessary for future education, including metaverse, AI, and collaboration platforms. Subscribe to Learn Today today and prepare for tomorrow's education!
