Digital Storytelling With English Language Learning Families

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors examine the design process and outcomes of a digital storytelling with elementary-aged English language learning families. The program was iterated through a multi-step design process to integrate the use of digital storytelling on mobile devices with family literacy. In this chapter, they explain why adults and children needed worktime separately before they collaborate and that a focus on funds of language, culture, and relevance foster willingness to engage with digital literacy. In working with English language learning families, they found the following themes: when it comes to schooling, everything is in English; confidence in learning about technology, literacy, and storytelling; and coexistence (spending time together). This chapter examines that the power and availability of mobile technologies, coupled with the traditions of storytelling, can transform language and literacy outcomes.