The DNA of Digital Storytelling: A Case Study from a Higher Education LSP Classroom

Abstract

This case study is based on a digital storytelling project conducted with first year Biotechnology with French students at National University of Ireland, Galway. Working in small groups, the students created digital stories in French based on forensic cases in which DNA profiling was used. The study was conducted while they were learning about DNA forensics in their mainstream programme. This study provides a practical example of how Digital Storytelling (DST) can be integrated as a teaching and learning tool into the Language for Specific Purposes (LSP) classroom within a higher education context. It highlights the potential of DST to develop students’ language skills within this specialised context and facilitate the acquisition of the transferable skills needed to communicate effectively in an increasingly globalised society.