EDUC 5333 - Week 3 Blog: Digital Storytelling Plan

Peers, I would love your feedback on my DST plan listed below: 

What story would you like to explore?

I would like to explore the journey of creating RISE Academy, a credit recovery program designed to support students in regaining academic credits and achieving their educational goals.

What type/kind of story will you tell?

This narrative-driven story will combine personal reflection, student experiences, and insights into the program's development. It will utilize a documentary-style approach to highlight real stories and data while weaving in personal anecdotes from my journey as a RISE Academy Leadership team member.

What is the purpose or impact?

This story demonstrates the importance of tailored educational programs like RISE Academy in addressing student needs. This population of students is behind their graduation cohort and has a gap in schooling. Typically, this population also faces coping with additional stressors, like homelessness, teen pregnancy, not being able to get basic needs, and many more difficult factors. 

What are the story elements?

• Characters: The educators involved, the students participating in RISE Academy, and any community partners.
• Setting: The educational environment
• Plot: The journey of planning, implementing, and refining the RISE Academy, including challenges and successes, as well as testimonials from students from a traditional school setting into RISE and how it has helped them succeed in their educational journey. 
• Conflict: Students and teachers struggle to recover credits and face hurdles in establishing the program.
• Theme: The transformative power of education and the importance of equity in access to learning opportunities.

What approach will you take to mapping or developing your story?

I will use a chronological approach to map the development of RISE Academy, highlighting key milestones. Additionally, I will incorporate thematic elements that illustrate the program's broader impact on students’ lives, using visual storytelling techniques to enhance engagement.

How might you use this story in an educational environment?

This story can serve as an inspiration for other educators and administrators looking to implement similar programs.

What content and technology standards are addressed?

ISTE Standards for Educators Learner (1): Standard: Educators continuously improve their practice by learning from and with others, integrating the latest technologies, and seeking out professional development.

What tools are you considering to capture, edit, and communicate your story?

• Video Editing Software: Tools like iMovie or Screenpal for video editing.
• Audio Recording Tools: Software such as Audacity for recording voiceovers or interviews.
• Presentation Software: Platforms like Canva or Google Slides to organize and present the story visually.

How might you produce your story?

I will produce the story by collecting multimedia content (photos, videos, audio clips) throughout the journey of creating RISE Academy. I’ll draft a script incorporating personal reflections and student testimonials and edit the content into a cohesive digital narrative.

How might you assess digital stories produced by students in your own courses?

I do not have students, but I create courses for RISE teachers to use with students. A capstone elective course, including digital storytelling, would be a great addition to RISE Academy. Assessment could involve a rubric that evaluates content, creativity, technical skills, engagement, and reflection.