Abstract:

This study presents a literature review concerning the rich historical, artistic, and anthropological heritage of villages along the Umbrian Apennine Ridge. These locations, often overshadowed by larger cities and less frequented by mass tourism, face the risk of disappearing because of their placement in a high seismic risk area and the phenomena of depopulation and consequent degradation. This research constitutes a preliminary study of existing investigations aimed at highlighting the potential of integrating heritage into formal educational contexts through the use of digital technologies. The objective is to analyze how such integration can significantly enhance students' learning experiences, promoting a deeper awareness of their cultural roots, both for those belonging to the Apennine ridge and for students from other geographical areas. Digital technologies serve as innovative tools to make the heritage of these small villages accessible to a broader audience. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offer immersive experiences that allow students to explore ancient streets, historic buildings, and art collections without leaving their classroom environment. These technological tools enable the reconstruction of historical contexts, providing a dynamic and interactive method for learning about the past. Furthermore, digital archives and databases can make rare and delicate documents, artworks, and artifacts available for study. This accessibility fosters a more inclusive educational approach, where resources are not constrained by geographical or physical barriers, and incorporating digital storytelling techniques can further enhance educational impact. Narratives that weave together historical facts with the personal stories of the local inhabitants can make learning more engaging and relatable. For instance, digital platforms can host interactive timelines that integrate multimedia elements such as videos, audio recordings, and interactive maps, offering a multidimensional understanding of historical events and artistic developments. The implementation of these digital tools in formal education can be assessed through preliminary studies. Pilot projects in schools that focus on both qualitative and quantitative outcomes can form the basis for this evaluation. Surveys, interviews, and classroom observations will provide valuable data on student engagement and comprehension, enabling iterative improvements to the digital resources.

In conclusion, the dissemination of the historical and artistic heritage of Italy’s small villages through digital technologies represents a significant advancement in educational practices. This approach not only preserves and promotes local culture, but also enriches the educational landscape, making history and art accessible, engaging, inclusive, and relevant to today's students.

Keywords:

Digital technologies, Heritage accessibility, Virtual reality (VR), Educational enhancement.