Use tech to tell a story about a local issue! Make a digital story, documentary, or short film.

Creating digital stories, documentaries, or short films is an exciting way to use technology to highlight important local issues or social causes. This activity helps students develop digital skills, tell meaningful stories, and inspire change in their communities. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making this happen:
1. Choosing Topics That Matter
The first step is to choose topics that are meaningful to the students and their community. These could include things like protecting the environment, celebrating cultural traditions, promoting health and wellness, or addressing social challenges. Students can research, brainstorm, and discuss these topics to decide which ones they want to focus on.
2. Learning Digital Storytelling Skills
To create impactful digital stories, students will learn the basics of storytelling and how to use tools like cameras, smartphones, or computers. Workshops will cover scriptwriting, storyboarding, filming, and editing. Simple tools like iMovie, Kinemaster, or Adobe Premiere can be used to edit the videos. By the end of the training, students will feel confident about making their stories come alive.
3. Working in Teams
Students will form small teams, with each person taking on a specific role. For example, one student can write the script, another can direct, and others can handle the camera or edit the video. This way, everyone contributes their unique skills, and the team works together effectively.
4. Planning the Story
Every team will create a script and a storyboard for their project. This means deciding what the story will say, what the scenes will look like, and what each person will say or do. These plans act like blueprints, guiding the team through the filming process.
5. Filming and Production
Once the story is planned, the teams will start filming. They’ll scout locations, set up their cameras or smartphones, and record the scenes they need. Along the way, they’ll learn about using proper lighting, sound, and camera angles to make their videos look professional.
6. Editing the Videos
After filming, it’s time to put everything together. Teams will use video editing tools to arrange the scenes, add music or voiceovers, and include titles or credits. This step transforms their raw footage into a polished final video ready for others to watch.
7. Sharing the Stories
When the videos are finished, they’ll be shared with others. The school can host a film festival or special event where students can showcase their work. Videos can also be uploaded to platforms like YouTube, the school website, or social media so more people can see them.
8. Spreading the Message
To ensure the stories reach a wider audience, students can write about their projects in newsletters or press releases. Sharing the videos online and encouraging others to watch will help raise awareness about the issues they address.
9. Reflecting on the Impact
After the videos have been shared, students will gather feedback from viewers. They can ask what people learned from the stories and how they were inspired. This feedback will help students understand the impact of their work and how they can improve in the future.
10. Keeping the Momentum
To continue using technology for storytelling, students can form a digital storytelling club or participate in local and national film competitions. Follow-up workshops can help them learn more advanced skills and stay motivated to tell meaningful stories.
Making a Difference Through Digital Stories
By creating digital stories, documentaries, or short films, students can use technology to raise awareness and inspire positive change. This activity not only improves their digital skills but also encourages them to think about the world around them and how they can make it better. It’s a fun and meaningful way to learn and contribute to their community!