How iPads are helping preserve Indigenous history across generations

A new program launched in Sydney is helping preserve Indigenous culture through technology.

Indigenous students using technology to preserve history

Indigenous students are using technology to preserve history Source: SBS

While the tradition of sharing stories is usually passed on orally or through song, dance and art, Aboriginal elders are being recorded on iPads to ensure the longevity of Indigenous culture.

After being recorded, the videos are uploaded on a website for the younger generations to browse through.

Elders are also being taught to use computers, tablets, emails and smartphones by Indigenous students, hoping to stay in touch with the demands of a digital world.

"Nothing like this was around when I was coming of age," participant Muriel Brandy told SBS News.
Aunty Beryl Van-Oploo said the Indigenous community wanted to move with the times.

"We have to be connected in this way because that's the way of the world today," Aunty Oploo said.

The program, which started in Sydney on Tuesday, will also move to nine other locations across New South Wales in the coming months, targeting regional communities.

"Simply being in a rural or regional part of New South Wales, the tyranny of distance can have some big impacts, particularly on getting access to services and resources," NSW Minister for Ageing Tanya Davies said.

Program coordinator Cindy Berwick says it has brought two generations together.

"There's always a reluctance from older people to learn new things but the relaxed atmosphere - I think they really enjoy learning off the kids," Ms Berwick said.

"I think the kids really enjoy spending time with the elders.

"There would be a concern that older people are passing on and their stories aren't being captured and for our communities to stay strong and for our young people to know who they are and where they belong, those stories need to be captured."

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2 min read
Published 7 November 2017 7:31pm
Updated 13 November 2017 3:04pm
By Abbie O'Brien, Laurie Lawira
Source: SBS News


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