Example Reflection – Storytelling

Challenge & Selection

Storytelling is one of my most favourite tools that I frequently use. I work as a freelance script writing intern and assistant across various  projects for various NGOs. I work with line managers, directors, associate and assistant directors,  script supervisors, editors, cinematographers and film-makers. The main reason I chose this profession is it enables me to empower humans  by telling stories that has the potential to bring a smile on the faces of  people. It thereby creates a positive impact in their day to day lives. I spend a lot of time on trying to empower children who are  underprivileged in a way.

I have often seen that narrating incidents in a way of storytelling  excites them as it helps them develop creativity, visualization. Also lets them form their own interpretations of your narration. I use this information to develop different strategies to try and find a  way that works for them to gain more independence in the areas they find  lacking in their lives. Children do not like to get restricted or guided in a specific way. They  like to be let loose which helps them form their own analogies. With my rural clients I share stories of my life in order to help them  visualize and develop a state of confidence.

Application

Whenever I share and explain stories to these beautiful souls, I do so in  a way that holds their attention and stimulates their thirst for  knowlegde. I try to keep it as interactive as possible. If not, there are chances of  students alienating themselves from your story. The more we keep them involved, the more they tend to learn. Interactive  storytelling is what works for me. We choose areas where the need for a creative enhancement in children is  high. We also apply specifice methods at times based on the needs.

I would like to recall an instance when one of the kids was suffering from  chicken pox. It happened in between our one month supposed sessions. We did not want the child to miss out on the lessons. At the same time, we  could not have the child amongst other childs. So we made appropriate measures to ensure that the child does not miss out  on his classes by arranging online sessions for him. We  also modified the course materials accordingly. We even extended our  stay in the place by a few days so as to not end the sessions abruptly.

Insight & Approach

By applying the story telling tool, our team has come to certain  conclusions. We have realized that it is the approach that best works for  us. We have tried the visualization method at times with means of visual  pictures and graphs, but it has given us mixed results. At times, students were incapable of comprehending visual depictions  because of their young age and limited understanding of concepts.

Going ahead, we would like to further work on our story telling skills to  create stronger impressions in young minds. But, at the same time, we would like to incorporate the techniques of  visualization and learning at times if possible. We would like to develop an ecosystem of combination of the two methods to  make the learning more impactful and user friendly if possible. We will incorporate our current outcomes and findings into our future  implementations in the best possible way. The final result ofcourse should be helping the children to gain better  knowledge and progress in a suitable and education friendly environemnt.

Thank You.

