Image by Bob Dmyt from Pixabay.com
Educators facilitate learning with technology to support student achievement of the ISTE Standards for Students.
What Is: This artifact is a digital storytelling video that was created based on my personal storyline.
Process: To design this digital storytelling video, I chose to use my personal experience traveling to Italy. I began by creating a storyboard and a script, choosing images and background music. Then, I used Canva to create this video in which I told my story with images and my own voice-over.
Connect: Creating this video was my first experience with digital storytelling. By learning about the development process, planning my content, and overcoming some technical challenges, I acquired the skills necessary to model and nurture my students' creativity and their ability to express their ideas and communicate effectively using modern technology.
What Is: This web-based instructional program was created to help 3rd-grade students craft a narrative essay with a clear story structure, well-developed story elements, and a logical sequence.
Process: As a team of three, we chose to address a learning gap identified in her students by one of our team members. In order to design and develop our multimedia project, we set to design a storyboard with all necessary media elements and a detailed script. I worked on the template that I shared with the other group members, researching educational videos, graphic organizers, and creating a set of Quizlet flashcards for student practice. I also created a quiz on Wayground (formerly Quizizz) and a reflection survey on Mentimeter. Our team put all the elements together by creating a website using Google Sites and presented the lesson to the students.
Connect: Our final product, a web-based instructional unit on narrative writing, provided students with ample opportunities to learn content while practicing their creative expression skills using various multimedia resources. When learning the lesson online, students were supported every step of the way via multimedia resources, such as images, audio, video, and gamification elements. The website design made it easy for students to work collaboratively as a group or individually.
What Is: This infographic was created to highlight the importance and benefits of digital game-based learning.
Process: After exploring relevant research and readings, I designed this infographic using Canva. I selected images for the infographic that would make it visually appealing and crafted short summaries on the benefits of game-based learning. Putting it all together using Canva presented a chance to apply both creativity and design skills.
Connect: Designing this artifact presented me with an opportunity to learn about this creative expression tool that would be beneficial for my students. Using infographics and user-friendly design platforms, such as Canva, in class would foster a culture where students take greater ownership of their learning goals and outcomes, both independently and collaboratively.
Reflecting on these three artifacts, I realize how each project provided me with valuable new tools that I can use with my students. Creating the digital storytelling video was an immersive experience that allowed me to employ the power of images, music, and voice. Using digital storytelling with my students would allow them to share their own stories through creative media, efficiently accommodating those who may struggle with traditional writing tasks. Working on the web-based instructional program reminded me of the importance of multisensory learning. The mix of videos, graphic organizers, quizzes, and interactive tools would provide students with both support and freedom to express themselves. Finally, designing the infographic on game-based learning showed me how visual tools can simplify complex ideas and make learning more engaging, accessible, and fun. Together, these projects strengthened my belief that creativity and technology, when used thoughtfully, can open doors for every learner in a classroom.