Narrative Learning
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Narrative learning emphasizes the use of stories, whether they are fictional or real-life accounts, to help individuals understand and remember new information. Narrative learning presents information in a way that is engaging and memorable, and that connects it to previous knowledge and experience. Narrative learning is usually presented in a story, stories “draw us into an experience at more than a cognitive level; they engage our spirit, our imagination, our heart, and this engagement is complex and holistic” (O’Connor, 2017, p. 96).
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Narrative learning can be particularly effective for complex or abstract topics, as it helps learners to create mental images and connections that make the information more accessible and meaningful. In addition to improving retention and understanding, narrative learning can also enhance critical thinking skills and encourage empathy and perspective-taking by encouraging learners to consider different viewpoints and experiences. The advantage of narratives is that they present issues as complex and multidimensional (O’Connor, 2017, p.101).
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Narrative learning can be used in almost any learning method or process. I have used cautionary tales while teaching behavioral learning as a warning during the evolution of dangerous tasks. As a way to illustrate an explanation using cognitive learning. Reading, writing, and reflection are ways to open dialogue when using narrative learning.
Tips on how to use narrative learning
Humorous stories to introduce the topic.
Personal story used to counter point misinformation or connect opposing viewpoints.
Can be used in case studies to help the learner build mental models. Narrative may be a way for groups to interact and explain attitudes and bias with “for instance” storytelling.
References
Forrest, M., Keener, T., & Harkins, M. J. (2010). Understanding narrative relations in teacher education. Asia-Pacific Journal of Teacher Education, 38(2), 87–101. https://doi.org/10.1080/13598661003677606
Matthews, M. T. (2018). Designing for narrative-like learning experiences. In Educational Technology and Narrative: Story and Instructional Design (pp. 249–258). Routledge.
O’Connor, S. H. (2017). The role of narrative in student engagement. Reflections: A Journal of Public Rhetoric, Civic Writing & Service Learning, 17(1), 96–112.
Rossiter, M., & Clark, M. C. (2007). Narrative and the practice of adult education. Krieger Publishing.