Digital Storytelling in the Classroom: New Media Pathways to Literacy, Learning, and Creativity

Digital Storytelling in the Classroom: New Media Pathways to Literacy, Learning, and Creativity is an educational text that focuses on what digital storytelling is and how a teacher can implement the concept in the classroom. Jason B. Ohler explains the concept in detail, perhaps to a fault, as it seems like the text is geared towards those who have never heard of digital storytelling, do not teach the language arts, or have never learned the definitions of the word 'digital' or 'storytelling' in order to draw their own conclusions about what this concept may be about. The entire first part of the text outlines digital storytelling and clearly identifies how it relates to the Common Core Learning Standards, the National Education of Technology Standards for Students, as well as the International Society for Technology in Education standards. However, he provides no solid examples of what the final product looks like. Ohler does mention titles of several digital stories he has created, but they fall short. Although the projects are explained, they are not searchable on YouTube in order for an interested person to look at. Without a clear understanding of the final product, the rest of the text is uninteresting and not engaging. I appreciate that Ohler provides suggestions on what to include in a rubric, ideas for story mapping, and potential resources to include in a digital toolbox, but I can't stress enough that I was not excited to implement his ideas as they were not clearly outlined for me. Part two of the text attempted to provide ideas of how to customize the art of storytelling by outlining different styles of stories. But as a veteran language arts teacher, I still didn't see how Ohler was providing me with new or even useful information. I was expecting to learn fresh ideas, ways to implement in various subject areas, potential cross-curricular projects, or at least be moved to get my creativity flowing, but instead, I couldn't wait to put this book down. The book ends with part three, which is describing the digital process. One would think the author would provide examples of how he has used various digital tools he suggested in the toolbox from part one, but he really doesn't. Instead, he mentions the items and their features. Teachers need more than this when considering whether they will take a huge leap and change what they've been doing. Luckily, I have a strong foundation on what is available to educators but if I didn't, I'm not sure I would be as confident when implementing this concept in my classroom.- Cassie

This book is a wonderful resource for teachers who are looking to find more creative ways to incorporate technology into the classroom. Ohler really breaks down the process of digital storytelling, providing the reader with a clear understanding of how to utilize this 21st century skill. With the adaptation of the Common Core Learning Standards and a focus on authentic learning experiences, digital storytelling is a must have in today's classroom! Through this tool, students can become much more engaged in the story telling process due to the fact that they are provided with a much more entertaining way of presenting their final product, ultimately increasing motivation. This book not only goes into the ins and outs of creating digital stories, but also provides the reader with insight into how to obtain parental approval, ways to appropriately utilize this resource under Fair Trade and Copyright Laws, as well as giving detailed descriptions on creating the actual Story Board. Digital Storytelling is a great way to encourage students to tap into their creativity. It is also a wonderful resource for improving students oral reading fluency, tone, and inflections, as they are able to hear themselves reading and make appropriate adjustments. This is truly a great read for teachers and students!

I used it for a class but will continue to reference it.

Jason Ohler has been working with kids in digital media and storytelling for over 30 years. He was experimenting in the classroom with new digital technology as it was being introduced. He understands kids and he understands technology. His book is loaded with great advice and methodology that is very valuable for any classroom teacher. His book includes a very wide range of topical areas needed by classroom teachers who want to make a difference in advancing digital literacy for their classes.

This book is great! It lays out the theory and functionality of digital storytelling that is very easy to replicate. I highly recommend this book for teachers in K-12 and Higher Ed who are looking to incorporate digital storytelling into their classroom.

Highly recommend!

Required book for school.

Excellent overview of digital storytelling and useful for low tech classrooms.