Digital Storytelling With Teachers in Rural Kenya: A Mixed-Methods Case Study

• In Event: Literacy Lives Across Spaces, Genres, and Action

Abstract

In recent years, the government of Kenya has implemented a Digital Literacy Programme—distributing tablets to schools across the country—and a new curriculum—promoting innovative teaching that includes digital literacy, relevance to students’ lives, and social and environmental awareness. The purpose of this research was to explore culturally sustaining teaching methods in line with the Kenyan government’s push for digital literacy attainment for all children. Thirty-four teachers participated in professional development in rural Kenya. This case study found that teachers report mostly using technology for teaching preparation rather than engaging students in digital literacy practices. This corroborates previous research in Kenya and demonstrates a need for continued
professional development on digital literacy instruction.

Author

• Shea Kerkhoff, University of Missouri - St. Louis