This page contains a Flash digital edition of a book.
Comic strips can be exploited in the learning environment in a number of ways. One activity is to give learners a comic strip cut into frames. They then discuss how to sequence the events in an appropriate order. This encourages learners to become more aware of narrative conventions and sequencing devices. Completing empty speech bubbles in their own words also gives the learners a medium of self-expression and encourages creativity. Finally, supporting learners in creating their own comic strips to revise content or extend their knowledge of a topic can help students to make sense of complex information. One of the difficulties I have had with comic strips is how time-consuming they can be to create. It is important to consider whether the effort of creating one is worthwhile in terms of how effectively it can be exploited for classroom use. Additionally, learners need training in how to create comics using technological tools. They may also become distracted by the visual appeal of the medium and lose focus. However, overall, I have found them to be useful in developing learners' motivation to improve their reading and writing skills.


The final digital storytelling tool which I would like to share is Storybird . This is a website where learners can


work collaboratively to create stories using ready-made illustrations. They have the possibility to share them with each other and give feedback on what they have read. I have used the tool mainly to summarise key information for trainees and to highlight specific linguistic devices. (See the examples below.) The main disadvantages of using Storybird are that the choice of artwork is limited. There is a bank of ready-made images but you are restricted to using the artwork of one artist. These illustrations cannot be adapted and may limit creativity. In addition, there may be stereotyping issues as some images can reinforce traditional norms, for example pictures of male fire-fighters and women surrounded by cats.


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