We all are collections of stories. Stories shape our reality and define our identities and lives. Accordingly, those who master the art and craft of storytelling have a great advantage in communication, are more effective in their work, and are more successful in their social life.
Moreover, if storytelling is important for anyone, it is fundamental for those who make communication their daily professional activity, teachers for instance. This course will introduce the participants to the core features of storytelling by examining stories from the oral tradition, as well as contemporary and technology-based stories from movies, comics, and video games.
The course will cover topics like story structures (i.e., what makes the “bones” of a successful story), and how to engage an audience regardless of the medium used.
Together, we will explore the development of myth, the “stories that always are, but never happened” (Sallustius), how deeply rooted they are in the collective unconscious (Jung), and what are the links with popular formats, such as fairy tales or contemporary comics or hit movies, including the work on the “Monomyth” by Joseph Campbell.
Every topic will have a strong experiential phase, and participants will have the opportunity to practice what they learned immediately. The course will encourage participants to tap into their potential as narrators and creators of stories and become effective communicators who master a variety of tools for storytelling.
By the end, the participants will be more aware of the immense power stories have in everyday life, and will be able to use this understanding to improve their attitude, as well as their professional and personal life.
Identify the principles, structures, and elements of storytelling;
Distinguish different formats of stories;
Create stories as a single author or as a group;
Use storytelling in their teaching and educational activities;
Exploit storytelling for their personal development;
Improve their public speaking and effective use of voice, body, and environmental factors;
Acknowledge the impact of stories on contemporary culture.
Tentative schedule
Day 1 – Course introduction & setting goals
Introduction to the course, the school, and the external week activities;
Icebreaker activities for trust and group building;
Identification of needs and goals for each participant;
Presentations of participants, their schools, and the trainer;
First Introduction to Storytelling, creation of short “Fairy Tales”.
Day 2 – Storytelling
Storytelling models, from myth to classics to the contemporary age;
Storytelling games to inspire creativity and quickly generate stories;
Public Speaking workshop with feedback from the trainer and the group.
Day 3 – Incorporating audiovisuals
Audiovisual storytelling: how to integrate videos and cinema in educational activities;
The Hero’s Journey by Joseph Campbell, introduction to the model and application;
Practice – write and share a Hero’s Journey.
Day 4 – Illustrations
Basics of Illustration and Drawing: how to use visuals to make your sessions more engaging;
An introduction to comics;
Practical experience: tell your own Origin Story through Drawing and Comics.
Day 5 – Sharing stories in the group
Digital education and educational videogames: an overview;
Practical session on oral storytelling: sharing stories in the group;
Where to find extra resources.
Day 6 – Course closure and cultural activities
Course evaluation: round-up of acquired competencies, feedback, and discussion;
Awarding of the course Certificate of Attendance;
Excursion and other external cultural activities.
Dates and locations
You can register for any date, even if it's not yet confirmed, especially if you're interested in courses several weeks away. Once we have a few more enrollments, we will confirm the date. If we are unable to confirm it, we will offer you alternative options.
Combine a confirmed date of this course with a confirmed date of another course and easily create a two week course by yourself. Start selecting one confirmed date of this course and see which other courses are confirmed in the same Academy the previous week and the following week.
Reviews about this course
Teresa Pérezfrom Spain
Getting to know about the schools of the other participants was an interesting aspect of the course. Learning about different educational systems and practices broadened my understanding of the educational landscape. It provided insights into various approaches and methodologies employed in different countries, fostering a global perspective on education.
Aristea Georgioufrom Greece
The opportunity to share experiences with other teachers, engage in interactive games, and collaborate on writing stories was a highlight of the course. These activities not only fostered a sense of camaraderie among participants but also provided valuable insights and perspectives from fellow educators. It was a dynamic and enjoyable way to learn and exchange ideas.
Ana Marcosfrom Portugal
I loved the methodology adopted to implement the storytelling for Education and learning in the classroom, but also the way in which the training was organized, as it allowed us to have close contact with the population of Praha and their culture. I was very well received. I felt at home.