Transforming Historical Documentation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making waves in the field of oral history research at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Scholars from various departments are exploring how AI can streamline the process of transcribing and analyzing oral histories, significantly reducing the time and effort required for this crucial aspect of historical documentation.
Key Developments and Applications
- Professor Tamar Carroll introduced AI transcription tools to her Oral History class, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.
- The Whisper AI software, known for its accuracy, is being utilized for research projects such as the study of Kodak’s Lambda Network.
- RIT’s Research Computing cluster enables processing of several hours of interviews using Whisper in less than one hour, overcoming the limitation of standard computing power.
- Students like Caitlin McCabe and Emmarose Tabin have become proficient in using AI-assisted transcription, significantly reducing the time required to transcribe interviews.
Implications for Cultural Heritage
The integration of AI in oral history research is not just about efficiency; it’s reshaping the entire field of cultural heritage. Elizabeth Call and Landyn Hatch from the RIT Archives have found that AI-assisted transcription allows for a deeper focus on the nuances of oral histories, such as speech patterns and tone. This technology also opens up possibilities for increasing accessibility in other areas, like creating alt text for online images.
Moreover, the exposure to AI tools is equipping students with valuable skills that are increasingly relevant across various fields. As the technology continues to evolve, it’s clear that AI will play a crucial role in preserving and analyzing historical narratives, making them more accessible and comprehensible for future generations.
