ALL learners benefit when encouraged to choose from engaging alternatives when expected to show what they’ve learned. There are learners in every classroom, however, for whom alternative options are essential. Numerous learners are simply unable to show what they know when restricted to the traditional media of pen on paper, or even keyboard on digital paper. Digital multimedia presentation tools are powerful alternatives for individuals with writing challenges.
Many educators are beginning to teach “digital storytelling”, and I believe this is an extremely valuable skill that ought to be taught. I think it is important to encourage the use of multimedia tools for more than digital storytelling. Multimedia presentation tools may offer the only effective means for some learners to show what they know. These tools offer the added motivational benefit of being easily shared with a global audience. This can be especially important for the learner who for one reason or another can’t write effectively.
Slidestory is a multimedia presentation tool for Windows that is especially easy to use. You must first download the “Publisher Client” and install it on your computer. Once installed, the application has a straightforward user interface. You drag and drop photos and arrange them in the desired order. Then, if you wish, you can use a microphone to record a narrative for each slide. Your project can be saved to your computer for further editing.
When you “publish” your slidestory, it is uploaded to the Slidestory website and housed in its gallery. Once uploaded, you can edit your presentation online if you decide to make changes. You are given an embed code that enables you to put your slidestory wherever you wish. You also have the option of sharing a link to your slidestory via email.
I’ve embedded a short sample slidestory below. I chose to use Picasa 3 to add text to each slide. Then I used my mic for voice narration. I used a set of family photos that I’ve used previously, so you may recognize my little presentation.
Many thanks to Patricia Donaghy for sharing this resource!