PATRICK DESLOGE (SALWEEN LEARNING JOURNEYS)

HONORING STORIES, EMPOWERING VOICES: DIGITAL STORYTELLING IN ACTION : DIGITAL LITERACIES/LANGUAGE LEARNING AND TECHNOLOGY

Digital storytelling (DST), rooted in the pioneering work of the StoryCenter in Berkeley, California, has blossomed into a global practice, nurturing communities of storytellers worldwide. Grounded in a seven-stage process, DST fosters a transformative journey where personal narratives are crafted into powerful video productions, amplifying voices and fostering diverse literacies. This presentation offers insights into the transformative power of DST in Thailand, viewed through the lens of a newly formed social enterprise, the StoryLab. Situated in Chiang Mai, the StoryLab provides a dedicated space and resources for intensive digital literacy teaching, empowering individuals to share their stories authentically. Participants engage in a collaborative process, beginning with intimate story circles that cultivate a safe environment for sharing lived experiences. Over intensive sessions, these narratives undergo a metamorphosis, culminating in compelling digital stories that resonate with authenticity and impact. By showcasing examples of digital stories crafted within the StoryLab, this presentation highlights the potential of DST to empower communities and address pressing social issues. Through a blend of visual, digital, and technological literacies, participants not only reclaim ownership of their narratives but also contribute to meaningful dialogue and social change. As we explore the intersections of storytelling, digital literacy, and social impact, I invite fellow educators and practitioners at AsiaTEFL to consider collaborative opportunities in leveraging DST for educational empowerment and community engagement.

Before founding his own company, Patrick worked at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) for 26 years where he was a Senior Lecturer working in Experiential Learning, Students-as-Partners and Digital Literacy while teaching a course in Digital Storytelling. After leaving HKU in 2022 he established the StoryLab in Chiang Mai.