Storytelling is a great tool to use in virtual learning. It increases the effectiveness of any online course that you will offer. This tool allows the learners to view any content in a motivating manner and could even let them immerse in any concept. At least, this is true if you give it the right elements. This is especially true if you can successfully integrate interactive stories into the elearning course.
Of course, that is where the challenge is. It is one thing to choose the type of form and delivery method for the content. It is another to make it happen. How can you integrate storytelling in the online lesson so it can improve engagement and effectiveness? Here are 4 tips that you can implement to use storytelling the virtual learning classroom.
Use an engaging narration.
Telling a story is easy. Doing it in such a way that will heighten the engagement of the learners is a different matter. Regardless of how you choose to do it, a narration is vital to the structure of the story. Make sure that it is focused, powerful, and is something that the learners are familiar with. The tone of the narration will help condition the minds of the learners to help them absorb the message of the story. Not only that, if it is organized thematically, you can expect that retention will be easily accomplished.
Come up with educational videos.
Another way that you can integrate storytelling into a virtual learning environment is when you use an educational video. These videos are created with the intention of imparting a skill or knowledge that will improve something in the life of the learner. It has to possess a cognitive load and should promote active learning. To make the storytelling appealing, creating a video to narrate it is the great way to ensure that engagement and interest will be there as the concept is being discussed. Without a doubt, this tool can effectively add life to any online course.
Insert colorful graphics.
If a video is something too technical for you, colorful graphics should make storytelling interesting enough. Data visualization is a great way to present facts in an engaging manner. If you use the right graphics and animations, you can present even the most complex topics through a story. It will not only make it easier to comprehend, the concept will also be remembered easily. Of course, you have to learn how to mix colors, images, shapes, and even charts to turn it into a compelling story.
Tap into the different senses.
The final tip is to make sure you can tap into the various senses of the learners. Ideally, the more senses you tap into, the more you can stimulate the brain to remember what is being taught. For instance, use audiovisual materials to stimulate both hearing and visual senses. You can also add text and graphics to stimulate other senses like tactile and kinetic. Involving both sides of the brain will enable the learner to focus on the story details while the senses are stimulated.
Of course, there are challenges when integrating storytelling in virtual learning like a slow broadband or multiple device preferences. Using stories will require some technicalities so make sure that you understand what is needed for support. Once you have met these requirements, it should be quite beneficial in enriching the learning experience of those participating in the course.
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