Exploring the role of digital storytelling in vocabulary learning and retention: A case study at Harran University

Storytelling is the oldest way of teaching, but it is still one of the powerful ways to introduce a foreign language because everyone loves listening to stories. However, stories have been converted into digital stories with the developments in technology. Therefore, teachers are forced to integrate multimedia materials into their language classrooms to create more enjoyable and technology-mediated learning environments for their learners who are expert on technological devices. Research studies investigating digital storytelling and its role in second language learning are relatively new, so there are few number of studies conducted on vocabulary learning through digital storytelling in Turkey context. This study aims to discover the role of using digital storytelling in vocabulary learning and retention. It also aims to investigate students' opinions about learning vocabulary through digital storytelling. The study was implemented in a state university in Sanlıurfa with 23 undergraduate students. The results revealed that digital storytelling could be a valuable and effective approach in vocabulary teaching. If it can be applied within different contexts, the quality of teaching vocabulary can be improved in an enjoyable and technological way which is more appropriate for today's learning environment.