Why an online learning space for political education with the Archive of Refuge?

Prompted by the pandemic but also in the hope that, after the pandemic is over, we will not fall back behind the digital achievements of the last few months, we have created a digital setting with more to offer than a conventional video conference. In the open source tool Mozilla Hubs we have designed workshop spaces as protected environments that creators can enter together with their target groups to provide input and hold discussions with the plenary and to work with individuals and groups. Moreover, without leaving Mozilla Hubs, the Archive of Refuge is available as an exhibition and can be used, for instance, for research tasks. This space is available without charge for use and onward development, and it can be adapted and expanded. Mozilla Hubs can be used in the browser or with VR glasses.

How to use Mozilla Hubs

The online learning space provides:

• a big space for the whole group with a screen that can be shared to display presentations or as a cinema setting to watch films from the Archive of Refuge together, etc.;
• 6 workshop spaces for mini-groups with an embedded Archive of Refuge playlist for research tasks that the group can use together;
• an Archive of Refuge exhibition space with all 42 videos, so that these can also be used for individual research.

How do I create my own space?

Step 1: Copy our space template by clicking here.

Step 2: Mozilla Hubs will guide you to open your own account, and then you will find yourself in your own version of the space. The space is as open or as secret as you make the link.

Step 3 (optional): Use (the Mozilla tool) or e.g. Blender (open source 3D software) to adapt the space to your needs – the Blender file is here. This step is not essential and is quite advanced, but probably exciting if you are interested in opportunities to progress in the digital space.

Step 4: Send the link to participants together with the time of the workshop.

Step 5: Before the workshop you ought to explore the space a bit so that you understand the spatial concept, the navigation and the Mozilla Hubs functions and can operate them with confidence. It might also be fun to explore the space with your group and overcome hierarchies. Our guide should help you start out.

Step 6: Implement one of the OER concepts (or one of your own, of course) that is also suitable for remote.

Step 7: Feel free to send us feedback so we can incorporate it into further development.