2025/26 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

COMM2715 Digital Storytelling

20 Credits Class Size: 48

Module manager: Jez Coram
Email: J.D.Coram@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2025/26

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module involves the practice and study of forms of digital storytelling in the context of traditional and interactive narrative. The role of digital storytelling in a range of social, technological and critical contexts is explored. The module introduces the history and emergence of digital storytelling, and contemporary applications of digital storytelling are analysed and evaluated, including the role of digital storytelling in commercial, education, campaign, and creative, cultural and interactive media industries. Case studies from various media such as, news, cinema, gaming, arts practice, and the internet are discussed in relation to relevant contemporary theory including post-digital and immersive storytelling.

Objectives

This module examines forms of digital storytelling in the context of traditional and interactive narrative. You will develop the skills to create multiform digital stories that use narrative, including interactive narrative, as a means to educate, entertain and for aesthetic, technological and socio-cultural critique. Narrative theory, such as the conventions of plot and character development, the representation of narrative action and the use of words/tone of voice are taught, together with sound as a narrative device. Methods for the formal presentation of plans for digital stories (including flowcharts, storyboards and structure diagrams) are also covered. You will analyse and apply creative critical contemporary digital storytelling theories and practices in development of your own digital story using current technologies.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module you will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject: 1. Demonstrate knowledge of the theories and conventions of narrative structure, including interactive narratives; 2. Analyse the creative critical application of digital storytelling theories and practices in development of a digital story; 3. Investigate a variety of production processes for digital stories in audio visual formats; 4. Create a digital story in an appropriate digital format and plan for its distribution using current technologies.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lecture 10 1 10
Practical 10 2 20
Private study hours 170
Total Contact hours 30
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Performance is monitored weekly at the workshops. You will present practical work for review. The summative mid-semester assessment provides an opportunity for formal feedback.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Coursework Practical 40
Coursework Practical 60
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

Resits Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated.

Reading List

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 30/04/2025

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team