Digital Storytelling (Part One)

There are many definitions of digital storytelling, but they all coincide in pointing out that digital stories combine traditional means of telling a story with different types of digital multimedia: images, audio, and video (graphics, text, recorded audio narration, video and music to present information on a specific topic). It is a good way to engage students in both traditional and innovative ways of telling a story. The students learn how to combine some basic multimedia tools such as graphics, animation, with skills such as writing, presentation, technology, interview, interpersonal, problem-solving, and assessment skills.

Get started with digital storytelling

Implement this process in your classroom

While the art of storytelling has been around for thousands of years, the advent of personal computers and approachable communication technologies has allowed storytellers to “go digital.

Digital stories focus on first-person narratives that use images, narration and music to frame memories as powerful stories. The ability to personalise stories with pictures and narration gives the story special meaning for both the creator and the viewer.

Digital storytelling works for students

Because the process of digital storytelling asks for the author‘s perspective and validates it as important, digital storytelling is an effective way to engage students in their learning. Using the digital medium for storytelling gives students an opportunity to create using the tools that are relevant and meaningful in their lives.

The ability to tell their story in a variety of ways – combining sounds, music, graphics, photographs, and original artwork – allows them to show their perspective and understanding, and express their creativity in a manner that engages their auditory, visual and kinaesthetic skills.

Much of the power of digital storytelling comes from the collaboration and teamwork process. In a collaborative environment, students are actively engaged in the exchange of ideas and are responsible for reaching their own academic goals as well as helping others in their group to succeed. During the process of developing a digital story, students also build planning, organizational, and time management skills.

…

Read part two of this article “Using digital storytelling in the Classroom“

Reference: www.tts.co.nz