Storytelling can be achieved using a multitude of platforms. Social media, video editing and creation software, writing a letter or orally sharing an experience. These are all methods of authoring or sharing a story. Stories primarily share an experience or tell a perspective of an event to convey knowledge of the author. Stories and narratives function as a communication tool when digitizing stories, they can live on and be shared quickly and easily with others.

When stories are shared on Web 2.0, the audience has the ability to comment, add or question the authors content. This feedback cycle can continue the conversation and communication between author and reader. The interaction between the two deeps and engages both participants.

One of my favourite methods to engage students in creating a story is through stop motion animation. Students deepen their understanding and comprehension of the characters, setting and the sequence of events when they participate in recreating the story using stop motion. I have had students reenact the three little pigs and different Ojibway Legends. Students start by creating the character using plasticine and the background setting either by choosing backgrounds and using a green screen or a diorama styled backdrop. Students really need to consider the physical features of character and setting. Learners critically think about the sequence of events. When the story is complete, students have an artifact that can be shared on Youtube or the class website with parents. Students as storytellers have a strong sense of accomplishment and love to share their work with others.

The curriculum has not yet evolved to include digital tools as a method for demonstrating learning, however, we know that students as digital natives are engaged and excited about using technology. As educators, we need to ensure that students have the opportunity to use digital tools, but we must be mindful of the learning students will require to use them effectively. The concepts of digital citizenship and digital footprint need to underpin the use of all digital tools. Classroom teachers must also model and demonstrate by performing a think-aloud to explain to students how to use digital tools.