Interactive digital learning resources
Thought-provoking for young people, simple and intuitive for teachers
We develop interactive digital educational resources that can be easily integrated into lessons. Exploratory learning modules look at the history of the Nazi era as well as focusing on issues connected with marginalization and participation since 1945. We use an interactive, multimedia-rich approach to explore history from multiple perspectives. Currently, some of our resources are in German only. However, more English-language modules are now in the pipeline, so be sure to check back regularly!
Suspicious. A Landscape of Crime
What happened here? And what does this history mean to us today? Suspicious. A Landscape of Crime is a digital educational module that enables users to immerse themselves in the history of Ohrdruf concentration camp in Thuringia, one of around 140 sub-camps of Buchenwald. Today, the site where the camp once stood is usually closed to the public – but with Vicky as their virtual guide, young people can explore the grounds and search for traces of Nazi crimes.
Exploring history – understanding the present
With Suspicious, young people can set off on their own and explore the history of Ohrdruf concentration camp in a virtual environment – without prior knowledge and at their own pace. Using a digital map, they can zoom into four 360° panoramas. Historical photos, videos, quotes, biographies, and a wealth of other resources – all embedded directly in the landscapes – bring the site’s hidden history to light and connect it to the present.
We’ve noticed that young people spend a long time on the Suspicious module. And they retain a lot of facts and details. The way the material is presented seems to have an activating effect on memory, encouraging students to develop a historical imagination. It also motivates them to take action – afterwards, many turn to us and ask “What can we do?”.
Holger Obbarius, Head of the Education Department at the Buchenwald Memorial
Developing resources with young people
We develop our educational resources in dialog with young people. That enables us to create digital educational resources that young people can really relate to and that encourage them to engage with history.
We invite them to take part in workshops where they can contribute ideas, enter into discussions, and give feedback. Together we explore questions like these: What options do I have for taking action today? How can I get involved in civil society?
