Audio

Before reading this chapter, I was confused about how to use audio in my classroom. I felt that everything that audio assessments and activities could accomplish could  be done using visuals and videos.  I learned that audio interviews are less intimidating for students because it is easier to forget about the tape recorder on the table than the video camera that is staring them in the face. I also learned that audio recording files are of a much smaller size than video files, and they are easier to send over the internet through things like email. They are also easier to edit, because you are just focusing on the sound and not also showing what is happening in the scene. I can  use this information in my classroom by keeping in mind audio when I am looking for activities, projects, and assessments.

The first link I explored in this chapter was a site called Audioboo. Every post on this site is a mini-podcast, and when you explore you will find some on almost every topic. I liked it was in the format of mini podcasts, so it would be easy for students to post a audio post containing a reflection on the content.  The second link from the chapter I found interesting was StoryCorps. I liked this site because they have a whole section for teachers, where people post their "stories" about students they had to work with or students that had challenges to overcome.  The third link I liked in the chapter was the the facebook page for this book, Playing with Media, Ideas for Powerful Sharing. I liked and thought it was really cool how the textbook that we were using in class had a facebook page, that thought had never occurred to me before.