Implementing Computer Science Through Digital Storytelling
🧠 Overview
This professional development series was part of NYC’s CS4All initiative, and designed to support elementary educators in integrating digital storytelling with computational thinking and coding in Scratch.
I co-designed and facilitated a 3-day experience during mid-winter recess that guided teachers through the process of turning written narratives into interactive digital projects — all while aligning to CS and ELA standards.
🔧 My Role
Instructional Designer, Facilitator, and Content Creator
- Designed the workshop flow using the ADDIE model
- Co-developed the entire slide deck, demo projects, and handouts
- Modeled live code-alongs and storytelling breakdowns
- Facilitated teacher collaboration in Zoom breakouts and Padlet/Wakelet shares
🧭 Structure of the 3-Day PD
🟡 Day 1: Introduction to Digital Storytelling & Scratch
- Defined key concepts of digital storytelling and computational thinking
- Deconstructed a model story (“The Fish and the Cat”)
- Introduced core Scratch elements (sprites, backgrounds, blocks)
- Practiced decomposing stories into scenes and actions
🟢 Day 2: Storyboarding, Coding & Collaboration
- Used planning templates to storyboard scenes and identify key actions
- Led a “code-along” building the first scene with motion, dialogue, and timing
- Supported participants in breakout rooms for peer feedback
- Curated teacher drafts in Wakelet for discussion
🔵 Day 3: Extensions & Classroom Implementation
- Explored Scratch features like loops, conditionals, and broadcasts
- Modeled how to scaffold student use of planning sheets
- Facilitated conversation about standards alignment and classroom rollout
- Collected final share-outs and feedback
🧰 Tools & Platforms Used
- Scratch (student projects and facilitator demo)
- Google Slides (visuals, instruction flow)
- Padlet & Wakelet (collaborative boards for reflection & drafts)
- Zoom (live facilitation, code-alongs, breakout discussions)
- Bit.ly (shortlink access to materials)
🎯 Outcomes
- Teachers left with a completed Scratch story prototype and classroom-ready materials
- Many participants adapted the unit to their narrative writing blocks
- Received positive feedback for the modeling pace, access to templates, and integration of SEL through storytelling
📁 Sample Deliverables (Redacted for Privacy)
- 🎨 Story planning template (with character + scene map)
- 🧩 Scratch block breakdown and “starter code” demo
- 🗂 Wakelet project gallery for peer showcase
- 🗣 Facilitator slide decks with meme-based icebreakers, direct instruction, and visuals
💬 Reflection
This project showcased how code can be a canvas for creative expression. By positioning students as storytellers and programmers, we built confidence in teachers who previously saw CS as inaccessible.
The workshop also demonstrated how well-designed eLearning can blend pedagogy, technology, and joy — even over Zoom.