Telling Tales with Talking Texts: Developing Language and Literacy with Digital Tools

Abstract

Using a case study design, this study examined how Microsoft Photo Story 3 for digital storytelling influenced the language and literacy development of an eighteen-year-old English Language Learner. It describes the role of digital storytelling in the development of oral fluency, word knowledge, grammar, and language use. Data included semi-structured participant interviews, conversations with the parent as key informant, and artifacts including the participant's notes, written and recorded drafts, and final digital text. From a sociocognitive perspective, findings indicate that Microsoft Photo Story 3 is a collaborative tool that creates student centered teaching and learning experiences. Findings indicate that multiple written and recorded drafts composed during the digital storytelling process provided focus for language and literacy instruction and encouraged use of reading, writing, listening, and speaking during all stages of the composing process. Findings have the potential to inform how we teach and learn with digital tools and texts.