Engaging PK Learners Through Interactive Storytelling

Purpose & objective

Purpose and Objectives of Presentation:

The purpose of this presentation is to introduce an innovative approach to PreK-2nd grade virtual education using interactive storytelling. We aim to address the challenge of engaging young learners in virtual environments, particularly while learning STEAM topics. We aim to show creative ways that educators can use technology to remedy this. Take-aways of this presentation include:

1. Knowledge of Virtual Learning Tools and Alternative Uses for Them:

Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of virtual learning tools, including different video conferencing platforms and digital microscopes. They will also be introduced to alternative ways of using common tools, such as PowerPoint, that can be more engaging for students. Participants will learn how to integrate the tools and methods we discuss into their curriculum.

2. Integrating Storytelling and Social-emotional Learning into STEAM curriculum

Attendees will learn how to incorporate storytelling and social-emotional learning into their curriculum, particularly while teaching STEAM topics.

3. Interactive Experience:

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with our curriculum to experience first-hand what implementing these methods would be like in their own classrooms.

Outline

Title: "Exploring Nature Virtually: Engaging Pre-K Learners Through Interactive Storytelling”

I. Introduction (5 minutes)

Welcome and Introduction

Butterfly Pavilion is the first stand-alone, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited non-profit invertebrate zoo in the world and a leader in invertebrate knowledge, inspiration and connection. At Butterfly Pavilion, we transform the way people think about invertebrates. These small but mighty animals that surround us are so much more than people think. They are everywhere, because everything depends on them. They are the hidden heroes of the animal kingdom, and we all stand on the backs of these tiny giants.

Butterfly Pavilion believes that all learning experiences we provide should ultimately lead to:

Awareness — a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around us

Compassion and empathy — an emotional connection that ultimately creates deep understanding of the science stories facing invertebrates and their world

Empowerment — the knowledge that not only is it up to us to be stewards of the natural world but also that we as people, regardless of our ages, are able to be voices for and change our behaviors to support conservation

Butterfly Pavilion programs are based in the real world, provide experiences with invertebrates and nature, place learners at the center of their own learning, and are inclusive of all learners.

Overview of Presentation 

Importance of engaging PreK and early elementary students in virtual formats as online learning continues to grow.

Digital Storytelling

Social-emotional learning

II. Introduction to Interactive Virtual Storytelling (5 minutes)

What is Interactive Storytelling?

Benefits for PreK-2nd grade learners

Curriculum Objectives

Social-emotional learning

STEAM topics

Storytelling

III. Implementing Interactive Storytelling (15-20 minutes)

Virtual Platforms and Tools Used to create “Lacey Ladybug’s Garden Adventure”

Establishing Learning Objectives

Incorporating Multimedia Elements

Demonstration of the lesson with audience participation in the choose-your-own-adventure format

Example of incorporating other elements featuring live invertebrates

Facilitating Student Participation

IV. Assessment and Progress Monitoring (5 minutes)

Evaluation Techniques

V. Overcoming Challenges and Considerations (5 minutes)

Addressing Technical Issues and Accommodations

Ensuring Inclusivity and Accessibility

VI. Conclusion and Future Considerations (5 minutes)

Summary of Key Takeaways

Looking Ahead: Potential Expansion and Adaptations

VII. Q&A and Discussion (10 minutes)

Addressing Questions from the Audience

VIII. Closing Remarks and Thank You (5 minutes)

Expressing Gratitude to Participants

Contact Information for Further Inquiries

Supporting research

https://www.unicef.org/northmacedonia/learning-social-and-emotional-skills-pre-school#:~:text=The%20first%20kindergartens%20pioneering%20the,the%20environment%2C%20and%20feel%20happier.

https://rdcu.be/dnnN5

https://www.nu.edu/blog/social-emotional-learning-sel-why-it-matters-for-educators/#what-is-social-emotional-learning

Nix RL, Bierman KL, Domitrovich CE, Gill S. Promoting Children's Social-Emotional Skills in Preschool Can Enhance Academic and Behavioral Functioning in Kindergarten: Findings from Head Start REDI. Early Educ Dev. 2013;24(7):10.1080/10409289.2013.825565. doi: 10.1080/10409289.2013.825565. PMID: 24311939; PMCID: PMC3845880.

https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1299260.pdf