The Power of Digital Storytelling

This week I've learned in depth about digital storytelling and the useful tool called storyboard. "The Power of Digital Storytelling" has taught me that teachers and students can use images to tell their story much more effectively than simply writing an essay. An essay cannot be as profound as one with images, audio, and video. If our education encouraged students to use digital storytelling, then we can learn to appreciate other people's diverse backgrounds. Students and teachers alike can learn and grow from each other, which I think is a wonderful thing. This activity encourages students to act as leaders and at the same time, it mirrors the traditional writing process while promoting competency in technology. The world is becoming more and more technologically advanced, and our education should prepare students for the future. This article goes into detail about how digital storytelling can go hand in hand with leadership: "6 Reasons You Should Be Doing Digital Storytelling With Your Students". 

Storyboards

Storyboards are a great way to save time, money, and stress when shooting a video. Everyone has a creative vision that can be hard to communicate with to peers, crews, or even clients. Storyboards essentially look like sequential rectangles with images, dialogue, and notes. This article I read in class called "How to Make a Storyboard for Video" has informative instructions and tips on how to make one. Down below is an example of a storyboard with the traditional story arc that is helpful for those looking to get started on creating a story. 

Technological Integration

Like I previously mentioned, storytelling mirrors the traditional writing process of brainstorming, planning, creating, revising, editing, publishing, and and reflecting. Creating a video requires many elements besides the writing process such as creating shots. This requires knowledge of video editing, drawing, and technology. The usage of technological integration can prepare students for future jobs that never existed before. Today, the emergence of vloggers, bloggers, influencers, YouTubers, video game streamers, software engineering, and more can guarantee this. 

Storyboards and digital storytelling is a powerful tool in which a student can find their creativity, interests, thoughts, passions, and identity. Let's encourage our students today to be true to themselves and nurture their talents and ambitions. Using digital storytelling, educators can invite students to create an open dialogue to strengthen our communities.