Archives and artificial intelligence: The Métis Oral History Transcription Project by the Esplanade Archives
Abstract
This paper describes how the City of Medicine Hat Archives sought to determine the validity of transcribing its collection of well over 1,000 oral recordings, in order to enhance their accessibility. This endeavour — the Métis Oral History Transcription Project — was conducted during the summer of 2023, using Descript (a subscription-based artificial intelligence audio transcription application) to transcribe a selection of significant oral histories, cared for and made accessible through the Esplanade Arts and Heritage Centre. As an act towards Truth and Reconciliation and to amplify voices historically stifled by the ‘official record’ that dominates so many archives, nine Métis oral histories were selected to be made more accessible to the public. The software proved extremely useful, but the transcription of oral recordings remains a labour-intensive undertaking. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/
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Author's Biography
Philip Pype is Archivist for the City of Medicine Hat, Alberta, where he has worked for the last two decades, collecting, preserving and providing access to the history of Medicine Hat and the surrounding area. Philip is also President of the Archives Society of Alberta. He holds a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Alberta, a certificate in records management from Mohawk College and a master of science degree in archives and records management from the University of Dundee Centre for Archives and Information Studies. Philip is an advocate for the use of creative solutions, such as community participation and volunteerism, youth employment and the application of evolving technologies, to achieve archival standards while meeting community needs. Philip is also active in the preservation of built heritage, the enhancement of educational opportunities for post-secondary students pursuing education in humanities, and nurturing a passion for history in future generations.
