Analysis of Educational Digital Storytelling Software using the "Dimension Star" Model

Abstract

Digital Storytelling is a pedagogical tool that has been used for centuries to impart knowledge, values and attitudes. A few models have been developed for the analysis and evaluation of Educational Digital Storytelling Environments EDSE. A useful, comprehensive and representative evaluation model of EDSE is the "Dimension Star" Schafer, 2004. This model could be used in the analysis and evaluation of EDSE using twelve criteria-dimensions, namely: Concreteness, User Contribution, Coherence, Continuity, Structure, Cognitive Effort, Virtuality, Spatiality, Control, Interactivity, Collaboration, and Immersion. In this paper, twelve EDSE are analyzed and evaluated with the "Dimension Star" model. This study may be a useful tool for educational software developers especially in the early stages of conception and design of an EDSE. Finally, this study can help teachers to choose appropriate EDSE so that be able to fulfill specific teaching goals in their classrooms.