If you have taught or participated in an online learning environment you know that one of the challenges is overcoming the barriers between instructor and student. The physical distance that exists often causes social and communication barriers that create a feeling of distance between the students and their instructor. One way to bridge this gap is through digital storytelling. This technology can help you get to know your students as well as letting them know a little more about you, the class they are enrolled in, and what you expect from them.
Digital Storytelling is the art of turning a personal story into a multimedia experience. One can combine images, sound, and their own creative voice to quickly and painlessly create their own story. What results is a work that is original and often powerful. There are various software programs that are free for download and one of those is Photo Story 3 for Windows. It can be downloaded free of charge from the Microsoft website or by going to our website and clicking on Free Software.
Our idea is that professors make their own digital story for students to view and in turn assign students to do the same. What you request from them is up to you but a few examples are career goals, hobbies and interests, and what they hope to learn while in your class. This practice can also help you tailor your class to the needs of your students.
Digital Storytelling can also be used in a variety of different ways. For example, it can be used to explain historical or artistic materials when pictures with voice over can be more powerful than the written word. While the images are scrolling across the screen you can narrate using your own words. It has also been used to highlight departments, programs, and events. One example of Digital Storytelling being used in this manner is on the future College of Communications Home page located at http://www2.astate.edu/a/communications/. Just click on the picture of the students. The music in this Digital Story was actually taken from the Media Services catalog of songs. More information on this can be found on page two of this newsletter near the bottom of the page.
For an example of a digital story from the instructor and student perspective please visit the digital storytelling page on our website.
While at out website you can also click on Training to sign up for a Digital Storytelling workshop.
