Fourteenth International Conference on the Inclusive Museum

Abstract

Audio guides are not innovative tools in museum communication, yet they are a popular device that may be developed into diverse formats ranging from podcasts to online teaching materials. The paper provides an overview of audio devices and their potential by focusing on how languages are used to provide multilingual content. In other words, audio contents from Italian institutions are discussed from a didactic and informative perspective. Samples of audio guides are analysed to highlight their writing style, sound environment, and content. Translation is also considered to show how multilingualism and the availability of materials in multiple languages are essential in museum communication as it addresses accessibility in intercultural communication. Intercultural communication is a symbolic, interpretive, transactional, contextual process in which people from different cultures create shared meanings. In this perspective, the production and sharing of audio materials where language instead of the visual is forefronted may bypass race or gender biases ‒ depending on the accent or variety used. We argue that the use of audio materials may enhance inclusion.