Bernard Robin’s article on, “The Educational Uses of Digital Storytelling” was very interesting. The way he explained how this tool could be used to enhance student learning was very useful. For example, he explains the specific skills that students are able to gain and work on when given the chance to use this tool (research, interviewing, writing, organizational and problem solving skills).
I tried to think of a time where I may have seen this tool being used in my school setting and I automatically thought of one of our English Language Learner classes. In our high school, we organize an event called, “A Demonstration of Learning” where students and families are invited to see the work that our students have prepared presentations about. On these nights we work hard to make sure all populations of our students are represented, general and special education students as well as our ELL’s. One of our ESL teachers was concerned that our ELL’s weren’t being represented enough on these nights so he planned a unit for his literacy enrichment class where his students were going to use digital storytelling as a way for them to share their experiences about their journey from their home country to the United States. When shared at one of our demonstrations of learning, it was an amazing experience. They had put a lot of time and thought into laying out their stories, photos and planning the narratives that went with them. For many of their teachers in other subject areas, it was the first time we had even heard them speak English.
Digital Storytelling gives voice to those who haven’t found theirs yet. In this case, our ELL’s were able to express themselves and teach us about where they come from, allowing us as their teachers and peers to learn about who they are as individuals.
Nadine,
ReplyDeleteI was touched by the line, "Digital Storytelling gives voice to those who haven't found it yet." Too often, children who speak English as a second language or who struggle in a subject area are placed in groups that define them by their weaknesses rather than their strengths. However, things like Digital Storytelling are great because they become a gateway of expression for those who feel silenced.
As I thought more about the project that the ESl teacher in your school created, I realized that the tools and structure he used reflect a "digital" version of what we ask our students to do when writing a story. The advantages of this format is that it allows students to use their strengths, reflect on their work, and maxamize their performance all while using a tool which they are familiar with: technology. This isn't to say that the creation process may be longer, and at at times more tedious, than a written version, but it does presents an even playing field where children can use video recordings, pictures, and typed words to present their ideas.
In addition to individualized work, I can see the benefit of group work with digital storytelling, especially in a classroom with mixed ability levels. Together, students will use higher level thinking skills to work through problems, create a storyboard, source through images, and turn in finished product worth being proud of. While technology does present its own challenges, it can allow teachers to showcase their students' work in a way that focuses on each students' unique, personal journey rather than on assumptions.