Digital transformation and advancements in digitization is currently being involved in almost every aspect of our daily lives especially in social, economic, and professional life and as result there is a vast amount of digital data produced every day. In addition to the large amount of digital data produced daily, a significant number of digital files (data) is also the transformation of analog and printed archival data (older years) into digital form, in order to be easily processable, to be securely stored and preserved over time, in order for modern and later scholars to have the opportunity to research their content in depth.
This paper discusses the use of open data and open archives for the protection and promotion of cultural heritage as well as the enhancement of education and is extended in two different case studies that showcase a plurality of use case scenarios as far as open data and archives is concerned.
The first part of the research presented in this paper refers to the usefulness of converting and preserving Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation’s analog files into open-content digital archives. Different approaches and methods for their study will be presented and the focus will be given on their use for educational purposes.
The second part of the paper focuses on specific case studies from the island of Corfu an area with important cultural history and high touristic density. The research emphasizes on the existence and use of datasets and open data/archive libraries and linked data by both public and private bodies, especially museums and other cultural entities with are based in Corfu. The research attempts to identify if there is a deficit in open data as far as the area of interest is concerned but also to propose possible initiatives for the creation of innovative services and applications for cultural education.
The main results presented through of both case studies is the contribution of open data/archives in social and cultural engagement and role of cultural content in identifying the participatory role of different cultural and educational actors.
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