Storytelling for STEM Educators
Patrick O'Leary
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Keywords: digital storytelling, STEM
Abstract
Stories are one of the oldest and most natural ways that we pass on information. Whether stories are told about history, culture or discoveries, they provide us a means for making sense of our world. One of the limitations to acceptance of new scientific information has been the inability of researchers to be able to explain their research. An effort is being made to teach children in middle schools how to explain their research through digital storytelling. Stories have also been shown to assist in reducing cognitive load and increasing motivation for learners. This presentation will review the supporting research behind storytelling as a form of scientific explanation. Provided will be practical suggestions for using existing technology tools to assist in the creation of digital stories for STEM research. And a discussion on the inquiry-based learning approaches that best support these models.
Take-Aways:
- Stories are a powerful tool for learning
- Creating digital stories is getting easier
- Knowing how to create the digital story is critical to an effective narrative in STEM research
Author Biography
Patrick O'Leary, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Patrick O’Leary is a PhD student in the Learning Technologies program, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota. His research focus is on the effects of storytelling on motivation in learners. Incorporating the inquiry-based, adventure learning model, he is exploring the narrative as form of learning and how the sharing of that narrative enhances the K-12 learner’s experience. Concerned with the educational theories that allow students to construct knowledge, he sees the use of technology in the classroom as an essential part of this learning process.
