So what is a digital story? It's simply a way of using technology, mainly audio and video, to convey a story to an audience. Telling stories that have a beginning, middle and end are an effective way of improving student retention of concepts. We all know it is much easier to remember a story than it is to remember random facts or information that we find un-relatable. Having students create their own stories helps them to sort through information, visualize it and present it to an audience, building their own knowledge in the process. In addition to content knowledge, students also learn how to use various forms of technology from video editing to digital music composition. These skills interest students because they can use them for education, but also in their personal lives and beyond to the world of work.
Following is an example of a digital story I made to highlight the Hands on History class at our school. I wrote it for other teachers to view in hopes that they might start a similar class in their own districts.
There are seven basic elements of digital storytelling as outlined by the University of Houston Education Department:
1. Point of View
What is the main point of the story and what is the perspective of the author?
What is the main point of the story and what is the perspective of the author?
2. A Dramatic Question
A key question that keeps the viewer's attention and will be answered by the end of the story.
3. Emotional Content
Serious issues that come alive in a personal and powerful way and connects the audience to the story.
A key question that keeps the viewer's attention and will be answered by the end of the story.
3. Emotional Content
Serious issues that come alive in a personal and powerful way and connects the audience to the story.
4. The Gift of Your Voice
A way to personalize the story to help the audience understand the context.
5. The Power of the Soundtrack
Music or other sounds that support and embellish the story.
6. Economy
Using just enough content to tell the story without overloading the viewer.
7. Pacing
The rhythm of the story and how slowly or quickly it progresses.
A way to personalize the story to help the audience understand the context.
5. The Power of the Soundtrack
Music or other sounds that support and embellish the story.
6. Economy
Using just enough content to tell the story without overloading the viewer.
7. Pacing
The rhythm of the story and how slowly or quickly it progresses.
For more information on how to use digital stories in the classroom, check out the University of Houston's webpage at http://digitalstorytelling.coe.uh.edu/.