Indonesian Archives Explore Digital Games for History Learning

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – To keep history lessons relevant for today’s students, the Indonesian National Archives (ANRI) is exploring digital formats such as games, stories, and films to make learning more engaging.

ANRI Head Mego Pinandito said children now interact more with gadgets than books, making traditional methods less effective.

“Imagine if history learning still required carrying books, it no longer fits. We must adapt with digital formats, whether games, stories, or films. Games are especially appealing,” he noted during the Arsip Goes to School forum in Jakarta on Thursday, August 27, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He suggested history‑based games could present challenges in chronological order, motivating students to complete them. “For example, Diponegoro’s story could start in 1825 and progress to 1830 within a game sequence,” he explained, adding that collaboration with the Ministry of Elementary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) would be essential.

Learning formats, he said, should be tailored to age groups, from early childhood education to high school. ANRI is also considering partnerships with IT experts to design interactive models. “It should not be limited to ANRI and Kemendikdasmen; we may expand further,” Mego added.

Teachers’ input will be crucial in shaping suitable models. Once developed, ANRI plans to provide original archives and historical documents to enrich the content. “Instead of just one or two photos in a book, we can offer illustrations, paintings, and other archival materials to bring stories to life,” he said.

ANRI will also give Kemendikdasmen the option to select which historical narratives are most appropriate and engaging for students. “We must ensure teachers find the stories relevant. Collaboration is key,” Mego emphasized.

By integrating archives into interactive digital formats, ANRI aims to preserve historical knowledge while making it accessible and enjoyable for future generations. ***