Integrating Futures: Culture Crates Hybrid Digital-Analog Methodology in the Advancement of Cultural Education and Preservation

Abstract

In an era of rapid globalization, the preservation of intangible cultural heritage through education is both crucial and necessary. This thesis explores culturally responsive learning and the innovative combination of hands-on and digital learning techniques introduced through "Culture Crate," an educational technology venture that integrates digital and analog methods to enhance cultural education in K-12 settings. Given that culturally responsive teaching significantly impacts student engagement and learning, there is a clear need for educational tools that are both culturally relevant and engaging. Employing a human-centered design approach, the research investigates the efficacy of merging digital content with physical artifacts to preserve cultural heritage and address educational gaps, and prototyping of Culture Crate was tested through this approach.

This thesis underscores Culture Crate's potential to foster empathy and intercultural competence among students through immersive learning experiences. Iterative testing and feedback from educators and students, alongside qualitative interviews, prototyping, and pilot studies, inform the refinement of the product. By aligning with UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Culture Crate aims to preserve endangered cultural practices while enhancing educational outcomes. Culture Crate, a cultural ed-tech solution, addresses the need for culturally responsive teaching by offering a hybrid learning model that combines the best of digital and physical educational resources. The research further examines Culture Crate's scalability within the broader educational market, highlighting its role in integrating cultural heritage into modern education. Ultimately, this study underscores the importance of culturally responsive teaching, offering insights into the development and implementation of educational technologies that ensure future generations remain connected to their cultural roots.