Digital Storytelling Final Reflection

Susan Koppel
Digital Storytelling
Mike Frerichs
February 8, 2008

Digital Storytelling Final Reflection Paper

When I signed up to take this class I thought we were going to be learning how to use Video on Demand. Video on Demand is a program where picture books and other educational stories are available to educators to show to their classes. I thought, “Wow, I already use this program everyday!” I was somewhat correct with my assumption. We didn’t use Video on Demand but we did create digital stories very similar to the ones on that program.
I was excited to learn a new program as well. This program was Windows Movie Maker. I love exploring the computer and expanding my knowledge of the different programs that are out there. I use technology everyday in my class. So learning this program was very exciting to me because now I have another one to use during my daily lessons. I have also found that some of the first graders in my class ask me what programs I use for certain things and that during computer lab time I see them trying to teach themselves these programs. These children in my class would have the “right brain” qualities that Daniel Pink discussed in his book. These children are seeing the big picture and are going beyond what’s right in front of them to explore different things and to try things without any fear. They use their creativity to try things and are not afraid to take this challenge.
Digital storytelling fits into this as well. Digital storytelling is a creative way to change normal daily lessons into these great productions that motivate children to learn. By seeing normal lessons in a whole new aspect gives these children the creativity to try something new.
I used digital storytelling to create a sequencing lesson with my children. I made it very kid friendly and used them in the digital story. When you use the children in the activity they are more excited about doing it and about learning. We can use digital storytelling to help motivate our children and to make them become these “right brain” thinkers who later in life we be creating these great things as well.