Theory, Practice, Tools

Theory, Practice, Tools

Wiest, Stefani

ET-New Trends, ET-Learning Styles

Rebmann, K.R. (2012). Theory, Practice, Tools. Teacher Librarian, 39(3), 30-34

Summary: Digital storytelling (DS) is an emerging learning tool that combines the use of digital media content and narrative. It has gained prominence in the classroom and school library setting as a teaching tool designed to reach all learning styles through the presentation of kinesthetic, auditory and visual learning. To begin a DS activity, the development of an idea, the collection of digital content and the determination of what tools will be used to complete the story or narrative are needed. Since its emergence into the educational setting, digital storytelling has evolved, most recently with the introduction of Web 2.0 tools. The article maintains there are several benefits of presenting digital storytelling to students, including, offering students access to technology, its adherence to curricular standards, and its effectiveness in utilizing library resources. DS is a tool that can be applied to all core standards.

Evaluation: The DS learning activity outlined in this article is a beneficial tool not only to schools, but also public libraries that could introduce the concept during story time hours. The utilization of technology and the creative outlet it provides will help students who are not motivated or are unsure how to start a writing assignment. The article also outlines ways to assess the effectiveness of digital storytelling in the classroom, how DS can be implemented into specific core standards, and the benefits of this tool to students who have varying learning styles. This technology will encourage creativity as well as bolster confidence after students view the completed product and present their ideas to fruition.