'Create and share dynamic conversations around documents, snapshots, diagrams and videos -- basically anything there is to talk about. Talk, type, and draw right on the screen. VoiceThread takes conversations to the next level, capturing the user's presence, not just comments. Users can join the discussion from iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac or PC.
This is a free app. However, after creating five free Voicethreads, you need to either by a five pack of VoiceThreads through in-app purchase for $2.99 OR purchase a K-12, Higher Ed., or Business license. Three levels of licenses are available within K-12, Higher Ed. and Business.
Type of Material:
Development tool
Recommended Uses:
VoiceThread has been called a "group audio blog" because of its ease in communicating and sharing comments. This app could be used for critiques, reflection, project collaborations, presentations, topic discussions, pro and con debates, discussing a topic with another class in another state or country.
Technical Requirements:
This app is designed for the Requires iOS 5.1.1 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. An internet connection is needed, preferably wifi, for this app to function.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
VoiceThread allows users to record text and audio comments about uploaded images. Since it is asynchronous and highly engaging, it provides users a way to communicate and collaborate at any time near or far.
Target Student Population:
Teachers and students in elementary, middle school, high school, university, professional development
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
No prerequisite skills are needed, but having an understanding in uploading files and recording voice comments is helpful.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The VoiceThread app makes content simple to find and accessible. Images and video can be added directly from the camera on user's device or from your photo library. Users can flip through slides of a VoiceThread and annotate them while the narration continues. Users can easily share a VoiceThread by selecting the group and generating a link for sending. For younger students, educators may find that this app used on the iPhone is ideal because of size and navigation.
Concerns:
None.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
The app is so adaptable to Pre-K through university curriculum. The multimedia aspect of image, text, and voice (audio or video) can serve as a motivator for students and teachers. The adaptability aspect also aligns the multiple intelligence theory and different learning styles. users could explain research, demonstrate a technique or process, retell a story with created artwork, critique artwork, collaborate with students in another country, compare and contrast a articles, etc. Some educators use VoiceThread and the app as part of a digital portfolio to capture growth over time. Users can make these projects public or private as desired.
Concerns:
None.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The app has a clean, easy to follow design. Once logged into your VoiceThread account, the Get Help and Settings buttons are front center. There are four icons with labels for Create, Home, Activity, and Account all displayed along the bottom. The Get Help link takes users to the VoiceThread site that provides support videos, tutorials and information. This app is routinely updated to stay very current.
Concerns:
If everyone logs on at the same time in a classroom setting, bandwith may become an issue.
Creative Commons:
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