DIGITAL STORYTELLING
Digital Storytelling (DS) is an six week AFF arts education program that improves students’ reading, writing, communication, media technology, and idea-expression skills through professional hands-on screenwriting, filmmaking, and podcasting. Launched in 2005, DS has served thousands of Central Texas Middle and High School students with a curriculum developed by Austin Film Festival and AISD English teachers.
Digital Storytelling, the Program’s signature, in-school initiative, provides English and Language Arts TEKS-aligned curriculum on the arts of screenwriting, narrative podcasting, and film production. Offered at no cost to participating schools, Digital Storytelling encourages students to harvest stories from their own lives, transform those stories into scripts, and experience the challenging, yet rewarding process of turning personal narrative into art. Throughout the six-week units, students undergo all stages of the creative process, thereby gaining valuable experience at the intersection of personal accountability and teamwork. Our goal is to provide teachers the necessary tools, training, and support system to implement Digital Storytelling into any classroom. Furthermore, Digital Storytelling curriculum utilizes the Festival’s On Story Archive, which includes insights from industry luminaries.
Here’s what past alumni have to say about our Digital Storytelling Program
“I am very grateful to be in this class because it has given me opportunities I never thought I could have at this age. My short script was selected as one of two to be made into a short film this year. I really couldn’t believe it! I feel honored to have worked with professional filmmakers and directors. It’s been a wonderful experience and I plan to be in this program again next year. This experience will help me greatly in the future when I actually become a professional filmmaker.”
– Cristina Gonzalez, Student Participant, AFF’s Digital Storytelling program
“Keep it up! This is a great way for students to expand on their creativity.”
– Linscott Anne Letzerich, 10th grade
““It made approaching writing more interesting, and it made me more appreciative by seeing all of the steps and work you need to do to get a great outcome of your podcast.”
– Maria Shirk, 7th grade
“My favorite part was being able to write and the voice acting. I love the sense of community I felt during the whole process, and I love being part of it all.”
– River Keaton, 11th grade
Participating Schools:
In the 2022-2023 school year, Austin Film Festival has currently partnered with the following schools for Digital Storytelling curriculum:
- James Bowie High School
- O’Henry Middle School
- Westlake High School
- Rouse High School
QUESTIONS?
For more information regarding the Young Filmmakers Program, please reach out to Young Filmmakers Program Director at yfpdirector@austinfilmfestival.com or call 512-478-4795.