Future Literacies through Digital Narratives: Preparing Students for the Storytelling Society of Tomorrow
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Digital Storytelling, Future Literacies, Narrative Pedagogy
Abstract
Background. The rapid evolution of digital communication has transformed storytelling into a foundational literacy of the 21st century, redefining how students create, interpret, and share meaning.
Purpose. This study explores the role of digital narratives in cultivating “future literacies,” emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and digital ethics as essential competencies for the storytelling society of tomorrow.
Method. The research aims to identify how digital storytelling can be integrated into formal education to prepare learners for a future dominated by narrative-driven communication across media platforms. A qualitative research design employing narrative inquiry was conducted across three digital literacy programs involving 68 students and 12 educators. Data were collected through classroom observations, interviews, and digital artifact analysis.
Results. The findings demonstrate that digital storytelling fosters multiliteracies visual, media, and technological while strengthening students’ reflective and ethical awareness in digital environments. Participants exhibited enhanced capacity to structure arguments, convey empathy, and critically evaluate digital content.
Conclusion. The study concludes that digital narratives are not merely tools for creative expression but frameworks for developing adaptive literacy practices aligned with global digital transformation. Integrating digital storytelling into education equips learners to become responsible and innovative communicators in a networked world.
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