African Diaspora Cultural Studies (Humanities/Social) | 09 May 2008
Preserving Digital Cultural Heritage in Resource-Limited Environments: A Mixed Methods Study in Cape Verde
F, e, r, n, a, n, d, o, C, a, b, r, a, l
Abstract
Digital cultural heritage in resource-limited environments faces unique challenges due to limited access to technology and digital infrastructure. Cape Verde provides a context where traditional preservation methods may not be sufficient, necessitating innovative strategies for safeguarding its rich cultural legacy. The study employs a combination of qualitative interviews with local stakeholders and quantitative surveys among the target population. A participatory action research approach is utilised to ensure that findings are actionable and relevant to the community's needs. Findings indicate that there is a significant interest in digital preservation among cultural heritage practitioners, but concerns about cost and technical expertise remain prevalent. The mixed-methods framework has successfully bridged qualitative insights with quantitative data, providing a comprehensive understanding of the barriers and opportunities for preserving digital cultural heritage in Cape Verde. Recommendations include developing community-led training programmes to enhance local capacity and establishing partnerships between stakeholders to facilitate resource sharing and knowledge exchange.