The Power of Digital Storytelling

Phil Gravestock and Martin Jenkins, University of Gloucester

Digital storytelling is a method of capturing reflections and thoughts through a combination of visual and oral processes.  The emphasis is on the narrative, rather than the digital processes employed to ‘capture’ the story.  Digital stories can take a variety of forms, but at their simplest level they consist of a series of still images – perhaps 6-8 separate images – linked by a voice-over narration of about 2-3 minutes (the equivalent of about 250-300 words).  Examples of digital stories can be viewed on the BBC Capture Wales site: http://www.bbc.co.uk/capturewales/. During the conference we will be providing a drop-in opportunity for you to come and make a simple digital story using you own stories of learning to be professional. Please come and try it you wont be disappointed.

Phil Gravestock

Phil is Head of Learning Enhancement & Technology Support at the University of Gloucestershire.  Phil’s interest in storytelling began with the use of storytelling to assist students to reflect on their learning during fieldwork.  Subsequently, Phil was introduced to digital storytelling by a colleague who had worked on the BBC Capture Wales project, which resulted in the Higher Education Academy/JISC-funded Pathfinder project ‘Enhancing Students’ Learning Experiences Through the Use of Digital Storytelling’.

Martin Jenkins

Martin is Academic Manager of the Centre for Active Learning at the University of Gloucestershire.  Introducing new students to digital storytelling during their university induction, as a means of encouraging reflection and engagement, was the start of Martin’s journey with this approach.  He has subsequently worked with colleagues from across the University helping them to use digital storytelling in a range of educational contexts.

Presentation