What makes a story powerful? How can we use storytelling for social change? In this lecture and discussion-based study group, we will explore the changemaking potential of storytelling and how YOU can make it your superpower. Through assigned readings and in-class discussions, will review research on the core tenets of storytelling and identify best practices by analyzing stories of various mediums (books, Ted Talks, podcasts, films, speeches, songs, and stories from our own lives). After identifying what makes a story effective at the individual level, we will analyze the role of storytelling in social justice work and consider how the re-framing of narratives can change public opinion about social issues. Finally, students will apply our findings to their own stories, which they will craft and share in any medium they choose. By the end of the course, we will have created a library of powerful stories that inspire and connect us as a community.

Storytelling as a Superpower

Instructor: Ariel Derby

8 Tuesdays, 10am-12pm (3/21, 3/28, 4/4, 4/11, 4/18, 4/25, 5/2, 5/9)

This class will be held virtually on zoom.