The target audience for my digital story includes parents of children with FASD, teachers, social workers and other professionals who support individuals with FASD, and individuals with FASD. Initially, I wanted to present my digital story in an interactive timeline format, because the goal was to show how the FASD diagnostic process requires many specialists and steps. After looking at a number of timeline tools, I found that they were too linear, or too restrictive in other ways that did not allow me to show the “big picture” well. The “big picture” and interrelationships are an important components of understanding the assessment and diagnostic process. I considered using PowToons, but again, that was something that learners sit back and listen at a set pace.
I ended up creating an infographic using Canva, and adding the other digital media in using Thinglink. I used some graphics which are included in Canva, and the rest I’ve cited the sources and Creative Commons information. I like that learners can read the main text content, see visuals, but also explore and access more information, in an organic manner, and at their own pace. I thought that worked well with the content and audience for the digital story.
As far as content wanted to include some personal stories, balanced with expert advice so that the subject is examined from a wider perspective. I like the story-telling part as that really makes the facts, and information about FASD really understandable.
The only thing to know is that when a ThingLink graphic is embedded onto a WordPress or an HTML page, the user needs to scroll over the image to see the target interactive links on the image. But for some reason I could not embed the link to this WordPress post, so here is the link.
Parm!
Wow! I have never even heard of ThingLink (or is it thinglink). I think that how you have used its features really works for your content and for the element of user control that you mentioned. It is succinct and yet expansive. Straightforward and yet multi-directional!
I am going to have to figure out a great way (like you have) to use this.
Keri
Hi Keri,
With the free version, student can add information, images, urls, videos or social media to an image without creating a log-on ID. It’s like Padlet that way, so no privacy issues to worry about. Its good for group projects in that sense. The con with the free version is that you have no control on who can add to the Thinglink interactive graphic. The paid version lets the teachers have more control, or even restrict contributions. There are some great samples on the site.