Narrative Techniques

Storytelling is one of the oldest teaching methods. Before the creation of writing, early people learned about the world and their culture through parables, fables, koans, and fairy tales that were passed down from one generation to another. These stories encapsulate who we are, what might happen, and how we should act. 

Today, a broader set of narrative techniques can be used in education to engage students, get them to think creatively, and synthesize what they have learned into something concrete. These narrative techniques have storytelling components such as a fictional situation and a cast of characters, but are more interactive than passively listening to a tale of morality.

The resources on this site provide a brief overview of several narrative techniques that can be used in practically any discipline.

Quick Links: About the Study / Faculty Showcase 2016

Student Generated Media

Student Generated Media projects help students to think about the course content in new ways since they are required to synthesize what they’ve heard, read, and discussed into a new work.

Open-Ended Problems

Open-Ended problems challenge students by forcing them to identify what they know in relation to a problem, allowing the group to then focus on the aspects of the problem they do not understand. The group then decides which issues to consider in order of importance this is then delegated.

Case Studies

Case studies provide real-world examples for students to ponder, research, discuss, and summarize.

Faculty and Student Stories

As a faculty member, creating your own stories can assist in the presentation of new material capturing the audiences attention and increasing student interest to explore new concepts.

Simple Simulations

Through simulations, students get as close to first-hand experience as possible without compromising their safety. Simulations also help students experience what a theoretical environment or situation might be like and give them experience applying course principles.

Role Playing Activities

Role-playing creates activity-based learning environments where students approach complex, real-life issues from different perspectives and collaborate to find evidence- driven solutions.