by Monika Beringer-Ermer [Tour Guide University of Vienna]
The University of Vienna organises guided tours in the main building and the Campus Altes AKH for various target groups, such as school students (aged 14 and over), tourists, conference participants, delegations, private groups, etc. As one of seven guides I had the opportunity a few months ago to accompany children aged from 9 to 12 on their tour in the University of Vienna’s main building using the Actionbound app. I was particularly struck by the children’s enthusiasm, joy, motivation and interest in engaging with the topics covered by the questions they had to answer – after all, the tour dealt with the sensitive subject of Nazism at the University of Vienna and its consequences. In my view, this was certainly also due to the fact that the wording of the questions and the background information were very carefully crafted and suitable for children.
In addition to the Nazi era and coming to terms with it, our school tours also cover the topics of science, research and university studies, though without the use of the Actionbound app and digital devices. We try to engage directly in dialogue with the young people and encourage them to participate, but the willingness to engage with the content of the tour beyond simply listening is somewhat limited, particularly amongst the younger school students, whilst very good conversations and discussions are usually possible with older school students (aged 16 and over).
I can well imagine that the use of the Actionbound app in certain areas could make the guided tours more appealing to pupils and that they would be willing to get actively involved.
All images by © Markus Korenjak