"Oral history" is useful to the study of history if there are hardly any or no written sources available and to throw light upon subjective points of view in the past.

(see Paul Atkinson (editor): Narrative methods. Volume 3: Oral history and Testimony. London and others 2007)

The research and documentation centre about South Tyrol's educational history carries out several oral history projects. The results aim to fill any gaps in the study of South Tyrol's educational history by considering institutionalised education of historical witnesses. The collection is used for scientific research and is also used as didactic material for teaching purposes at university. Currently the collection consists of 70 interviews of former students and teachers. However, it is constantly growing. The videos are saved on the original Mini DV video tapes in analogue form and are in the process of being digitalised. In addition, the interviews will eventually be provided with subtitles.