Digital Storytelling in EFL Education: Learning Outcomes and Methodologies

Abstract

We reviewed a series of studies using digital storytelling (DST) in the teaching of English as a foreign language (EFL), aiming to identify DST’s recurrent effects on EFL learning and to summarize the common methodologies adopted in this area, thereby providing potential directions for further investigation. After a close analysis, three main learning outcomes of DST emerged, which were closely associated with the enhancement of EFL learners’ language proficiency (speaking, writing, literacy, etc.), improvement of student engagement and motivation, facilitation of creativity, autonomy, etc. The methodologies employed varied in studies, including quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods. By synthesizing the literature, we pointed out several challenges and limitations and identified underexplored areas for further study.