Storytelling as a Pedagogical Tool
Jaime Riascos’s workshops and residencies are designed as educational experiences that integrate storytelling, literacy, and creative expression into the learning process. Each session is grounded in a pedagogical framework that values imagination as a fundamental component of language development, emotional intelligence, and cultural awareness. His programs combine structured learning objectives with creative activities that promote reading comprehension, oral communication, and empathy across diverse age groups.
Creative Writing Workshop
This program introduces participants to the fundamentals of creative writing through storytelling. Students engage in guided exercises that strengthen their vocabulary, descriptive writing, and narrative coherence. The workshop promotes literacy as a bridge between imagination and language, encouraging participants to express themselves confidently in their preferred language — English, Spanish, or both.
The stories used in this program are drawn from Puro Cuento, Jaime’s book of Latin American tales published in partnership with California State University’s Fragamento Project. This collaboration enriches the workshop with authentic cultural narratives, offering students direct access to traditional and contemporary stories that stimulate creativity and reflection.
Reading and Listening
Participants are introduced to short literary texts and oral stories from Latin America and around the world.
Imagination and Discussion
Through guided dialogue, students identify key narrative elements such as character, setting, and conflict.
Creative Writing Practice
Students apply these concepts in their own short stories, poems, or plays.
Sharing and Reflection
The group presents their creative pieces, fostering a supportive environment of feedback and appreciation.
By the end of the workshop, participants demonstrate improved fluency, narrative structure, and creative confidence. The program is flexible and adaptable to the curricular goals of schools, libraries, and cultural organizations.
Format: English, Spanish, or bilingual
| Ages: 9–13 | Duration: 2–12 hours |
Group size: 10–30 participants
Imagination in Motion
This long-term program combines reading, writing, performance, and teamwork to develop creative literacy and confidence among children and teens. The residencies emphasize interdisciplinary learning by integrating elements of theater, movement, and oral tradition into the classroom or library setting.
Through role-play, improvisation, and collaborative creation, students explore key 21st-century competencies such as empathy, cooperation, and critical thinking.
The residency model typically includes the following components:
Phase 1: Exploration
Introduction to traditional and contemporary stories that highlight universal human values and cultural diversity.
Phase 2:
Creation
Students adapt or invent stories, using writing and drawing to plan their performances.
Phase 3:
Rehearsal
Participants bring their stories to life through acting, music, and movement.
Phase 4: Presentation
A final showcase or reading session open to the school community, where students share their creative work publicly.
These residencies are highly adaptable to academic calendars and can be integrated into language arts, theater, or multicultural studies programs. Teachers and librarians may receive optional training modules to continue fostering creative storytelling beyond the duration of the residency.By the end of the workshop, participants demonstrate improved fluency, narrative structure, and creative confidence. The program is flexible and adaptable to the curricular goals of schools, libraries, and cultural organizations.
Format: English, Spanish, or bilingual
Includes: Music, movement, and performance elements
Settings: Schools, libraries, community centers, and cultural festivals.
