Digital Storytelling

Dusti Howell is assistant professor at Emporia State University in Emporia, KS. Deanne K. Howell is an educator from Emporia, KS.

"Digital storytelling is the skill of creative writing in a digital format. This manual outlines how to create eStories with specific examples for different ages with five suggested software programs: Riverdeep’s Kid Pix, Pinnacle Studio, Microsoft PowerPoint, Adobe Premiere, and Macromedia Flash. Certainly the organization and clarity within this book, and therefore ease of use, give the feeling of simple integration into units in technology and creative writing. Each project is organized under the same headings and follows the same writing process, including Materials Needed, Getting Started with a Storyboard, Building the Project, and Adaptations and Extensions. This guide, though otherwise a very useful tool in digital storytelling, has two shortcomings: specificity of software and timeliness of applications addressed. Can these skills be applied to other software programs? Will the tutorials in this manual still hold true for updated versions of the suggested software? I believe they provide the framework for digital storytelling that educators can now adjust to whatever programs are available in their facilities. The intended audience is teachers and library media specialists, and success with this text requires some computer skills and knowledge. The manual includes a clear table of contents, index, appendices, tips for successful digital storytelling, and low quality images and screenshots to illustrate technique. This will be a refreshing companion book to any professional collection intent on integrating activities to enhance information literacy for students. Recommended." - Library Media Connection