Students choose an expressive topic that requires researching various elements of an event, identify facts that can contribute to the presentation, and apply the information to their writing. Composing a meaningful, sometimes emotional, story results in learning to articulate their emotions, opinions, as well as, facts regarding their digital story. For instance, in a literature review by Stacy Behmer, a specific group of students researched and interviewed Holocaust survivors.
Digital storytelling engages students in self-expression and public speaking. It's also meaningful way to obtain some technology skills by allowing students to build a digital presentation from scratch. Similar to PowerPoint presentations, students work on creating text, inputting images, as well as, using audio. Some teachers encourage a presentation that can interest people outside of class, which sometimes enhances their vocabulary usage when presenting.
In grades K-12, cliques form and bullies evolve, ultimately, dividing the student body into groups where no compassion exists for outsiders. Digital storytelling lifts the barriers allowing students to develop a sense of empathy for a fellow classmate's story. A "sense of community" forms, and many begin collaborating and sharing "ideas from a personal perspective." Within the group discussion, students manage to solve problems, absorb complex ideas, and discuss difficult topics in a respective way. Some connect to their classmates on a deeper level.
Psychologists, teachers and parents understand a student's self-worth factors into decision-making skills and dealing with negative peer pressure. This project can enable students to self-reflect and express themselves. It's a chance to find their voice and come to grips with past experiences.