“I am proud that I did it and it’s a piece of me”: Digital Storytelling in the Foreign Language Classroom

Authors

  • Martha E Castañeda Miami University (Ohio)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11139/cj.30.1.44-62

Keywords:

digital storytelling, output, focus on meaning, real world communication

Abstract

This case study examines students’ experiences regarding the infusion of digital storytelling in their high school fourth-year Spanish class. The aim of this case study is to determine if digital storytelling can be an effective tool for language learners to communicate emotion and present information to an audience.  Sources of information for this case study include pre- and post- open-ended questionnaires, pre- and post-focus groups, semi-structured subsequent interviews, as well as observation and reflection journals.  The findings reveal an epistemological shift that frames students’ perspectives. The data recount a shift in the understanding of the purpose of the digital storytelling task in the sense that the learners’ focus changes from the elements of language and technology to a meaningful project as a whole. The findings also confirm that digital storytelling projects adhere to the presentational mode of communication, follow the writing process, and as well as engage students in a meaningful, real world task in the foreign language classroom.

Author Biography

  • Martha E Castañeda, Miami University (Ohio)
    Dr. Martha E. Castañeda is an assistant professor at  Miami University (Ohio) where she directs the Foreign Language Education program, prepares pre-service teachers and teaches Spanish. She received a Master’s degree in Spanish linguistics from the University of Florida in 1997.  She then obtained her Ph.D. in Second Language Acquisition and Instructional Technology from the University of South Florida in 2005.   Her academic work focuses on social dimensions impacting language development in second and foreign language learning and acquisition.  She co-authored a book on the use of technology to work with English Language Learners.  She has published several articles including one in Foreign Language Annals and one in Hispania.

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Published

2013-01-18

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Articles

How to Cite

Castañeda, M. E. (2013). “I am proud that I did it and it’s a piece of me”: Digital Storytelling in the Foreign Language Classroom. CALICO Journal, 30(1), 44-62. https://doi.org/10.11139/cj.30.1.44-62

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