Digital Storytelling as an Agricultural Extension Communication Tool in Smallholder Farming and Fishing Communities in Malawi

Telling Tales: Digital Storytelling as a Tool for Qualitative Data Interpretation and Communication

“…It can promote reflection (through plotting and telling a story), critical thinking, and help with digital literacy and writing skills (De Jager et al, 2017). Digital storytelling can strengthen relations between participants (Davey & Moulton, 2020). It offers a safe space in which to share and reflect upon experiences; it is often used when working with vulnerable or marginalized groups; and it often touches upon particularly delicate or sensitive issues such as gender-based violence (see Martin et al, 2019).…”

“…Audio and visuals can engage the viewer and help represent experiences that words alone cannot (De Jager et al, 2017). They can also add the experiential element that scientific representations often lack (Davey & Moulton, 2020). However, although music is commonly used in digital stories, our storytellers chose not to.…”

“…The method is also flexible and can be adapted for use in a variety of contexts. In a previous project, the first author experienced how an adapted digital storytelling methodology can reveal beneficiaries' perspectives of a project as they experience it, and not, for example, what they think project donors might want to hear (see Davey & Moulton, 2020). The reflection, dialogue, and co-creation of knowledge that the digital storytelling process initiates though sharing and discussing stories may help find more appropriate responses to specific situations within specific contexts (Alterio & McDrury, 2003).…”

“…Furthermore, selecting the audio and visual elements encourages creativity and metaphorical thinking. This can engage the audience and often evokes an emotional response (Davey & Moulton, 2020).…”

“…Nevertheless, participants and facilitators usually finish by viewing what the storytellers have produced over the 3 days-their digital story. This is often a moment of empowerment for storytellers, claim Davey and Moulton (2020).…”