Digital storytelling is a virtual storybook that has all of the aspects of a paper storybook, but also includes the gift of voice and multimedia elements. Digital stories often include music, animated elements, and other fun surprises. The best part-- they are often student or teacher created!
The story below was made using a combination of scanned pencil and paper drawings along with an original storyline and a read aloud voice. However, the possibilities are endless when it comes to all the opportunities and author has. Powerpoint, Prezi, and Google Slides are all good base platforms for a story's virtual canvas. Recording services like Screencast-o-Matic (used below) are also helpful in recording both sound and computer screen to create a video.
Any of the graphics and services previously described in these 21 Things 4 Teachers can be used to enhance a presentation. Photo editing services like Fotoflexer or copyright free photo sites can both offer graphics for a story. An avatar or voice to text service can read a story aloud. Videos or animated graphics can give a story pop as well. Creating digital stories brings together a vast amount of web resources that students should learn into one fun project.