If anything separates humans from other animals, it's the way we tell stories. Far from just being a way to convey information, stories can entertain, soothe, teach, and motivate.
From cave drawings to fireside tales; radio dramas to multimedia presentations, the evolution in storytelling has given everyone a voice, and digital media makes our stories available on a scale never before seen in human histroy.
This can be both empowering and overwhelming. The ability to tell our stories our way has some chomping at the bit, while others may feel apprehensive about the technology to use, or whether their voice is interesting enough to be heard.
In the classroom, educators have an opportunity to frame the storytelling in a way that gives everyone confidence. By doing some rudimentary modeling, students can see how techies of all levels are capable of creating something. By making the technology the tool, instead of the end goal, students are likely to create something that attracts an audience, because they will get to focus on the story. Once the story is ready, they can choose the platform that fits. Sites like Animoto, Kizoa, or Powtoon give simple ways to make stories pop. Software like Windows Movie Maker, Adobe Premiere, and iMovie can take it to the next level. If the teacher is flexible with the final product, anyone can tell a great story.
The great thing about digital storytelling, is that anyone can be published! The internet is host to a variety of websites that give students a way to showcase their work (think Youtube or even your school's website). You can build trust with your students by ensuring them that nothing but their best work will go on display, which gives them ownership of their work -- letting them experiement, make mistakes, and build confidence as they learn. Helping shape confident storytellers means that students will learn their own voice, how to share thoughts and opinions, and makes them more likely to search out the pieces themselves, instead of just waiting to be spoon-fed information.
There is so much room for creativity and connection in storytelling. You can get the conversation started in your classroom just by watching others' stories. Find examples online, and start talking to your students about what they liked or what they would have done differently. Then, encourage them to take of the mantle and make the changes!
For more tips, I like this website. It gives a simple path, that doesn't require you to be a tech expert yourself. find a platform you're comfortable with so you can make a demo, then give the students free reign to find the storyteller in themselves.