“The ease-of-use of new and emerging storytelling technologies, synergised with the imaginative, potentially transformative human power of narrative is opening up new possibilities to enhance creativity and creative education. It is potentially enabling more learners to be creative with digital media—irrespective of their creativity or “lack” of creativity heretofore” (Hall, 2012)

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The art of storytelling is intrinsic to the human condition. Originating with the visual, cave paintings depicted the lives of our ancestors. As language became oral, stories were shared by word of mouth, then recorded through text. History, philosophy, and culture is vibrant with narrative, as knowledge and ideas are passed down from generation to generation. As Bruner (2007) states, ‘there is no culture in the world without stories’- stories construct culture, bringing people together to define what makes them unique. As we share with different cultures, communities, and alternative points of view, we identify ourselves in the lives of others. We become more empathic citizens, challenging our assumptions and breaking the barrier of the unknown.

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The connection between image and text in storytelling has always remained. An experienced storyteller can ignite the most powerful imagery in the mind of the listener. As we move throughout history, the means in which storytelling sparked the imagination shifted. Technological advances created the camera, and the lens has been an enigmatic means of sharing stories ever since. It is a mechanical, yet mysterious way of communicating vivid imagery, both still and moving. This short course makes use of the camera, asking students to tell their stories using the tool, quite literally, at their fingertips.