Module 3: Storytelling and Creating Video

During this module, I had the privilege of delving into the profound impact of storytelling in enriching the learning process. I wholeheartedly believe that storytelling is an inherent aspect of human nature. Its presence is unmistakable in our natural inclination towards literature, cinema, and the personal narratives shared within our families. This module allowed me to explore and implement storytelling techniques to convey a story with an educational purpose. My inspiration for sharing my exchange experience was deeply rooted in the enduring influence of my mother’s childhood story of relocating to Sweden, a narrative that has left an indelible mark on me.

Storytelling’s Cognitive Power:

Research has shown that storytelling or narrative presentations “increase memory retention of key information by a significant margin. This applies to both written stories and oral and visual presentations. Learners are not only more engaged and more likely to be motivated to change their behaviour, they’re also more likely to remember the information in the long term” (Glonek et al., 2014).

Twine

Twine, an interactive storytelling application, offers users the opportunity to craft narratives in a “choose your own advantage” style. After immersing myself in the course material to enhance my understanding of the Twine platform, I set out to brainstorm my script. In accordance with Mayer’s Segmenting Principle, I aimed to keep my script under 5 minutes. This required careful planning and preparation regarding the script’s content. Crafting the transcript felt natural to me, as it revolved around a significant period in my life. Preparing the script ensured that my Twine story maintained a logical flow and conveyed a clear message. Research has indicated that reducing length is associated with improved content retention. Drawing from Mayer’s Personalization Principle, I infused my narrative with a friendly, enthusiastic, and conversational tone.

Visual Highlights:

Here is a  screenshot of my Twine:

https://twinery.org/2/#/stories/deea472a-3534-4fd7-a5fd-4445a3c5c89a

My Twine Script: 

1. Introduction:

In my Twine story, I’ll take you on a journey through my exchange experience, starting from the University of Victoria and leading to Utrecht University.

2. Beginning:

It all commenced when I received an acceptance letter from Utrecht University in the Netherlands. The opportunity to study abroad was simply too enticing to resist.

3. Goodbye:

Bidding adieu to the summer I had spent in Vancouver with my family and friends proved to be no easy task. The tears shed at the Vancouver airport bore witness to the emotional farewell.

4. Hello:

After a 9-hour flight to Amsterdam followed by a 30-minute drive to Utrecht, I finally reached my new home in the heart of Utrecht, where I’d be spending the next four months.

5. Scenery:

Coming from Vancouver, where I was accustomed to the grandeur of a bustling city with towering skyscrapers, crowded streets, and the picturesque backdrop of the ocean and mountains, Utrecht offered a different kind of beauty. While it may not have provided the breathtaking mountain vistas that Vancouver did, it had a unique charm of its own. During my initial days in this novel city, I couldn’t help but admire the architectural blend of historical and contemporary styles. Strolling along the meandering canals that crisscrossed the city, I was captivated by the tall, narrow brick buildings, cobblestone streets, and the ubiquitous presence of bicycles.

6. Homesick:

About a week into my adventure, the culture shock hit me. While English is widely spoken in the Netherlands, Dutch remains their primary language. The constant presence of Dutch, from street signs to conversations, was disorienting and constituted a significant culture shock. I began to yearn for my family, friends, and the familiar tastes of home.

7. Welcome Week:

My host university offered a welcome week, meticulously designed to introduce us to new acquaintances, delve into Dutch culture, and acquaint ourselves with the city. This experience filled me with anticipation for the journey that lay ahead.

8. New Routines:

The canals became my favorite spots for unwinding and people-watching. I’d frequently find myself at one of the numerous waterfront cafes, savoring a cappuccino and relishing Dutch pastries.

9. School:

Shortly after my arrival, the academic semester commenced. Utrecht University operates on a 4-period system throughout the year, a departure from my usual academic routine.

10. Conclusion:

As my exchange journey progressed, I navigated the challenges of homesickness while embracing the excitement of exploring Dutch culture and academic life in this charming and historically rich city. Each day I love this city a bit more!

Reflection question: 

Describe a meaningful learning experience that started with a story that you heard. What made it impactful for you? What senses did it appeal to? Did you recognize any of the storytelling techniques reviewed this week?

• In light of the recent focus on historical Indigenous tragedies, I recall a significant learning experience that began with a story I heard. Conversations with my family revealed the stories of my parents, who grew up in Edmonton, Alberta, during that era. The lingering question of why the residential schools and the distressing events were not halted earlier had always intrigued me. These narratives provided insights into the traditional societal dynamics of the time, substantially enhancing my understanding of the historical context.
• These personal experiences underscore the profound impact of storytelling in the learning process. Storytelling possesses the remarkable ability to connect us with critical historical events and deepen our comprehension of the world around us.

This module has further strengthened my understanding of the power of storytelling and its influence on the learning process. It has illuminated the significance of crafting engaging narratives and has equipped me with valuable tools to create meaningful educational content.