Corso di Laurea magistrale in Scienze del libro, del documento, del patrimonio culturale

The specific objective of the course, according with the specific objectives of the study course in Scienze del libro, del documento, del patrimonio culturale, is to provide theoretical, methodological and applicative elements regarding models of description, ordering, communication, use of the different types of cultural heritage objects, according to an interdisciplinary perspective. The centrality of the concept of 'model' will be explored first by introducing the different types of standards used in archival, bibliographic and museum fields. Specific attention will be dedicated to the contents of the National Digitization Plan (PND). At the same time, an accurate analysis of case studies will be proposed, showing the concrete applications of models and standards.

At the end of the course, students will have the theoretical, methodological and partly applicative tools to:

• understand the general lines of the concept of 'cultural heritage';
• acquire theoretical and methodological tools useful for interpreting and managing the activities related to the documentary representation of cultural heritage objects;
• know principles, standards, procedures relating to the application of transversal and interdisciplinary models in the digital environment;
• know the main characteristics of the digitization process of the National Digitization Plan;
• evaluate the applications of models and standards, in a perspective oriented towards communication and use of contents.

The course will begin with an introduction to the fundamental concepts of 'cultural heritage', drawing from the Faro Convention and the Italian Code of Cultural and Landscape Assets. The subsequent modules will cover the following topics:

• Analysis of cultural heritage representation models used in archives, libraries, museums, and heritage institutions.

• Cultural heritage cataloging: tools, standards, and platforms.

• Digitalization of cultural heritage: techniques, formats, and standards.

• The National Cultural Heritage Digitalization Plan: vision, strategy, and guidelines.

• Digital Libraries for preserving and communicating cultural heritage: definition, usability, and comparative analysis.

• Digital transformation in cultural institutions: definition and key elements.

• Digital strategies and tools for managing and enhancing collections, with a focus on artificial intelligence tools, immersive environments, chatbots, and eye-trackers.

• Encounters with cultural heritage professionals and digital skills organized in collaboration with the course on Museology and Museums of the Contemporary Age.

All lessons are held face-to-face, and will last a total of 36 hours (6 credits). Students who are unable to attend face-to-face lessons will be guaranteed the possibility of using the lessons by depositing the audio/video files on the Moodle platform, together with the teaching material; the possibility of using teaching material through the Moodle platform will be ensured and the attendance of face-to-face lessons will be replaced with the study of the texts indicated below (in addition to those mandatory for everyone), with respect to which the teacher ensures support for study and preparation of the exam (information about this will be communicated in the notices of the course.

Inclusive teaching: Aware of the different needs of students, the course offers the possibility of accessing teaching materials through the Moodle platform. For students unable to attend in-person classes, attendance can be replaced with the study of additional texts (in addition to those mandatory for all students). The teacher will provide support for study and exam preparation, providing specific instructions in the course announcements.

Engaging activities: To increase student engagement and promote active learning, the course includes the following activities:

• Discussion groups: Creation of small groups for discussion and critical analysis of real-world case studies, with final presentations.

• Simulations and role-playing: Activities in which students simulate professional roles in the field of digital cultural heritage, addressing problems and finding practical solutions.

• Feedback: Use of tools such as surveys (Mentimeter, Slido) and virtual whiteboards (Mirò) for continuous feedback and to encourage participation.

• Seminars: Meetings with experts in the field of Digital Cultural Heritage.

The exam will be oral and will assess the following aspects:

a) Knowledge and Understanding: Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the subject matter, including key concepts, theories, and principles.

b) Applying Knowledge and Understanding: Ability to apply acquired knowledge and understanding to solve problems, complete tasks, and address issues within the field of study.

c) Making Judgments: Developing the ability to gather, interpret, and evaluate relevant data and information to make informed decisions and form independent judgments.

d) Communication Skills: Exhibiting effective communication skills, both oral and written, tailored to various audiences, including specialists and non-specialists.

e) Learning Skills: Demonstrating the capacity for autonomous learning and the ability to undertake further study with a high degree of independence.

The exam will be graded out of 30 points (minimum passing grade 18/30). A full and critical understanding of the topics covered and mastery of the specific language will be rewarded with very good, excellent, and outstanding grades (27-30 with honors). A rote or poorly developed knowledge of the subject matter and the use of correct but not always appropriate language will be rewarded with good to medium-good grades (23-26). Minimal knowledge of the topics covered and sometimes inappropriate language will result in barely sufficient grades (18-22). Finally, serious gaps in knowledge will result in a failing grade (<18/30).

For students with SLD or disabilities, please see the University's support and reception methods (https://en.unito.it/services/students-special-needs-0), and in particular the procedures necessary for support during the examination (https://en.unito.it/services/students-special-needs/students-specific-learning-disability-sld/support-taking-exams).

Students with SLD are requested to inform the professor at the beginning of the course in order to agree on a personal learning path adapted to their needs, also beyond the compensatory and dispensatory measures provided for the examination.

The teaching material is available on the Moodle platform.

To prepare for the exam, the study of the teaching materials indicated in the bibliography is required. With reference to the teaching methods indicated, female students who will not be able to attend lessons in person will agree with the teacher on supplementary readings, in respect of which study and examination preparation support is provided (information on this will be communicated in the teaching announcements).