The effectiveness of digital storytelling in the classrooms: a comprehensive study

Abstract

In recent years the use of new technologies in educational systems has increased worldwide as digital cameras, personal computers, scanners, and easy-to-use software have become available to educators to harness the digital world. The impact of new technologies in educational contexts has been mostly positive as new technologies have given educators the opportunity to enhance their knowledge, skills, and therefore enhance the standard of education. Researchers have found that student engagement, achievement and motivation are enhanced through integration of such technologies. However, education systems still face many challenges: one of these challenges is how to enhance student engagement to provide better educational outcomes. It has become increasingly important to use innovative pedagogical models to engage learners. Digital storytelling is one of the innovative pedagogical approaches that can engage students in deep and meaningful learning. This research project aimed to create a constructivist learning environment with digital storytelling. The research investigated the pedagogical aspects of digital storytelling and the impact of digital storytelling on student learning when teachers and students use digital stories. A multi-site case study was conducted in one Australian school at primary and secondary levels. In selected classrooms, students and teachers had the opportunity to engage in innovative learning experiences based on digital storytelling. In order to enhance the reliability and validity of the research, multiple methods of data collection and analysis were used. Data was collected with qualitative and quantitative methods. An evaluation rubric was used to collect quantitative data, while interviews and observation were used to collect qualitative data. Data collection was guided by a mixed methods research design in order to evaluate if and how digital storytelling enhances teaching and learning outcomes. The findings from this study suggest that digital storytelling is a powerful tool to integrate instructional messages with learning activities to create more engaging and exciting learning environments. It is a meaningful approach for creating a constructivist learning environment based on novel principles of teaching and learning. Thus, this approach has the potential to enhance student engagement and provide better educational outcomes for learners.

Development of A Template Lesson Plan Based on 5e Model Enhanced with Computer Supported Applications and Conceptual Change Texts

“…Until these plans are published, when a sample lesson plan is applied, it would also develop the IT skills of the students. Analysis of published studies shows that digital stories are effective in developing students' IT skills (Sadik, 2008;Ohler, 2013;Robin, 2006;Barrett 2006;Thang & Mahmud, 2017;Smeda et al, 2014). In addition, the European Union (EU) approves the notion that a fundemental transformation is necessary in education for member states to access the new information, skills, and a broader range of the qualifications required in the information age.…”

An Evaluation of Digital Stories Created for Social Studies Teaching

“…It has a strategic role, particularly in conveying to the student a desired message about specific topics (Doğan, 2007). In their research, Smeda et al (2014) created a constructive learning environment through digital story narration. In this context, an analysis was made of the impact made by digital story telling on the teacher and student during the learning process.…”

“…Similarly, Alexander (2011) claimed that the process of creating a digital story can be group-based and be helpful in implementing collaborative Journal of Education and Practice www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1735 (Paper) ISSN 2222-288X (Online) Vol.7, No.29, 2016 20 learning to the students. According to Smeda, Dakich & Sharda (2014), digital stories are an efficient pedagogical tool that increases the motivation of students, while providing a learning environment for the students in the process of story creation through collaboration, reflection and interpersonal communication.…”

“…Inclusion of digital stories as a complementary tools to the curricula can contribute to effective teaching and learning (Smeda et al, 2014). Digital stories also help concretize abstract concepts, transform conceptual content in a more understandable way as well as conveying content in an interesting way (Robin, 2006).…”

El aprendizaje del inglés a través de la creación colaborativa de relatos digitales del ámbito turístico

“…El empleo del RD como recurso educativo fomenta, además de competencias lingüísticas y tecnológicas, la motivación de los alumnos, y ayuda a los profesores a construir entornos de aprendizaje constructivistas que faciliten la creatividad en la resolución de problemas basada en la colaboración y la comunicación entre estudiantes. Asimismo, el uso del RD puede facilitar la implementación de metodologías integradas en el desarrollo del currículum e involucrar a los alumnos en un aprendizaje de mayor esfuerzo cognitivo (Smeda, Dakich y Sharda, 2014).…”