Storytelling
Storytelling is an integral part of our lives, starting from childhood whilst listening to parents tell us bedtime stories or reading books for the very first time. In an age of technology and artificial intelligence it is worth considering what happens to some of our humanistic traits, such as the art of telling a good story and how we maintain these skills. The history of storytelling within indigenous communuities for teaching, self and community development is a vital part of maintaining culture and demonstrates how important stories are.
“Communication in Indigenous American communities is rich with stories, myths, philosophies and narratives that serve as a means to exchange information. These stories may be used for coming of age themes, core values, morality, literacy and history. Very often, the stories are used to instruct and teach children about cultural values and lessons.” (Wikipedia, 2016).
A Nurse StoryTeller
Ian Miller who writes The Nurse Path, is an excellent example of a storyteller, he provides such insights and debates all though using clinical situations from his clinical career. These events are often funny and real life, and as such make an impression and then we can understand colleagues, patients or families by hearing their stories and life through their eyes. This style of delivering information is a skill and likely resonates so much more than a boring memo, update or routine education delivery. Just read some of the comments on his posts, he really generates thoughts and discussion among the nursing community. Follow Ian on Twitter (@TheNursePath).
The Narrative: Ted Talks
References
Afshar, V. (2014) The Art of Pursuavive Storytelling
Azziz, R. (2013) The Critical Art of Storytelling
Duarte, N. (2011) The Secret Structure of Great Talks.
Online Universities (2016) The Art of Digital Storytelling
Wikipedia (2016) Storytelling