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Model of a North Sea oil rig

Tales of a Changing Nation

The Scotland: A Changing Nation gallery is full of fascinating items that tell the story of the nation’s history through the 20th and 21st centuries. And now some objects have even more stories to tell, which you can reveal for yourself and add your own memories when you visit the gallery.

Around 80 objects in the Scotland: A Changing Nation gallery have been ‘tagged’ with QR codes. If you have a smartphone (for example, an iPhone or Android phone) you can scan these codes to uncover a treasure trove of hidden information about the exhibits.

How does it work?

1. Download and install a code reader to your phone

You can download the Tales of Things app from Android marketplace or the iPhone app store. This allows you to scan the QR codes in the gallery and contribute your memories. Simply search for ‘Tales of Things' in the  app store then download and install the reader according to the instructions on your screen.

Although there is a mobile internet signal in the gallery, it may be best to download and install the code reader before you visit the museum. You'll also need to register a username and password at www.talesofthings.com in order to submit your comments and memories.

2. Scan the objects

Once your code reader is installed, simply scan the QR code next to your chosen object with your phone and you’ll be taken straight to a website page with further detail about the item, from video and audio clips to images and fun facts. You can also add your own comments or memories about the object to the web page.

3. Add your comments

Once you've scanned an object, you can add your memories about it using the Tales of Things app (provided you have already registered at www.talesofthings.com.)

Not got a smartphone?

You can still see all the extra information about the objects and add your comments here: http://talesofthings.com/totem/group_view/44/  

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National Museums Scotland, Scottish Charity, No. SC 011130