Digital storytelling vs. oral storytelling: an analysis of the art of telling stories now and then

Abstract

Generally, oral storytelling is an ancient art of telling stories that has been passed down from generation to generation while digital storytelling incorporates technology which consists of various multimedia modes such as graphics, audio, texts, videos and animations. This paper analyses the differences between the two strategies by discussing their differences in four aspects: (1) the use of technology, (2) the role of storyteller, (3) the approach of process and product, and (4) the engagement of audience. The analysis aims to create awareness among academicians about these differences and highlight that digital storytelling is the combination of both the art of storytelling and digital story. Then, this paper provides a critical review of empirical studies on the potentials of using digital storytelling in teaching and learning for education. The results have shown that the use of digital storytelling is not only beneficial in developing the teachers’ content, pedagogical and technological knowledge, but also in enhancing their students’ learning as it increases their understanding of content and caters for their multiple intelligence. This study suggests the implementation of digital storytelling in teaching and learning in the classroom and future directions for research are suggested.