Storytelling With Purpose

Digital Projects to Ignite Student Curiosity

By Michael Hernandez

ISBN: 9781564849960

Release Date: February 2024

Length: 160 pages

Table of Contents

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Discussion Guide

Reimagine learning with this book’s practical advice, case studies and strategies on using digital storytelling as a vehicle for student inquiry and assessment.

Award-winning educator and speaker Michael Hernandez brings more than 20 years of classroom experience to addressing some of the most existential challenges in education today: artificial intelligence, steep declines in student engagement and the need for authentic learning experiences. The solution: digital storytelling as a framework for learning.

Rather than viewing storytelling as a nice-to-have reward for students after their “real work” has been completed, this book shows educators how to use story projects — from data visualizations to social media posts, to podcasts and video documentaries — as the scaffold upon which to position curricular skills and knowledge. The process helps students make interdisciplinary connections, activates higher level thinking and critical analysis skills, and provides multimodal learning opportunities.

This book offers practical ways to elevate teaching and learning in every grade level and subject area. Focusing on student-centered, project-based learning experiences, the book demonstrates how to use digital tools to:



• Leverage curiosity as the engine for learning.
• Provide purpose for the skills and knowledge central to curriculum.
• Create uncheatable, authentic assessments.
• Develop a mindset of collaboration, mental agility and resilience.
• Cultivate digital literacy skills and ethical mindsets.
• Bring purpose and joy back to learning.

More than a practical edtech guide, this book explores the “why” behind digital storytelling as much as the “how.” Educators will learn how to help students explore cultural and historical context, develop social-emotional resiliency, and develop the skills they need to become engaged global citizens.

Audience: Elementary and secondary educators; instructional coaches; educational leaders

About the Author

Michael Hernandez (@cinehead) is an award-winning cinema and journalism teacher in Los Angeles whose work focuses on digital storytelling, media literacy and social justice. As an author, speaker and consultant, he helps educators empower students to find passion and purpose in their learning so they can make a positive impact in their communities. Hernandez believes in the transformative potential of technology in the classroom, and fostering an innovative mindset based on student curiosity, creativity and passion. His presentations at conferences in the U.S. and abroad for ISTE, SXSW EDU and Apple Education focus on tech integration and innovative teaching and learning strategies. He also leads students and teachers on documentary trips to Asia and Latin America as part of an experiential learning program. Hernandez was selected by National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions as a Grosvenor Teacher Fellow for 2021. He is an Apple Distinguished Educator, Adobe Education Leader and PBS Digital Innovator.