Digital Storytelling in the Classroom

I would like to learn how to use digital storytelling. I think it would be neat for students to be able to record their own stories and then be able to share the video to the class. I have seen some children doing this in classroom, but have not been hands-on with this application. If a teacher decided to use digital storytelling in the classroom, they would need to consult the school's AUP because the teacher would be using a digital source. A video of a student is confidential because it shows the student and gives the name of that student. Digital storytelling is a type of podcast because the student is giving information about a topic he or she chooses. The teacher might have to go over these policies with the students so that they know the etiquette of making a video. The subject matter and content should be clean and not about another person unless creating a biography or autobiography. The use of the device is also included in an AUP so the student would need to be aware of how, when, where, and what the device is used for outside of the classroom if needed. These videos could be shared to other people in the school district, so the teacher might need to tell the students what is expected from them by providing a rubric and going over these policies and guidelines in a serious manner. Also some students may not realize the digital laws, access, rights and responsibilities, or security which is laid out in an AUP. The students might also decide to use a character in their story which might be copyrighted so they would need to know that they have to give credit where it is due. If the teacher saw that the district or school was not up-to-date on their AUP, then she might want to say something for the protection of herself and students. Digital storytelling is a great resource to make reading fun, but the technology side of it could be dangerous if not handled in a safe way with the students. If the teacher decided to share it on their blog or class website, she would have to make sure the parents were aware of any policies and confidentiality dealing with the videos.