Using Discussions (Multimedia)

VoiceThread

www.voicethread.com

Voicethread is a tool that can be used to engage students in multimedia supported discussions, with the use of images, videos and audio that adds a lively tone to the sharing of comments and ideas.

Pros:

  • Has the benefits of a regular text-based discussion.
  • Add to the asynchronous conversation, the ability to enrich the message with images, videos and audio contributions.
  • Share messages with different media which enriches the idea of "social presence" amongst students. Being part of a conversation, where students can see and hear, as well as, read text from each other, connects them with the online experience in a deeper way.
  • Use the different media to make a point in simpler and clearer ways.

Cons:

  • Requires time to set up the structure and to monitor it.
  • Requires scaffolding during the first uses of the tool.

How To:

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    Go to the home page of the tool at Voicethread.com

  • Watch this short video about an introduction on the tool.

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    Sign in for a new account or log in to get back into your own account.

  • Watch this short video on how to set up the account on Voicethread.

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    You can learn more about the site at its "about" tab. Take time to review the activities and uses that many have made of the tool.

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    Once you set up your account, you can review three tabs: the Browse Tab lets you see public voicethreads that have been created. You can search through those examples by content or name.

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    Find and browse your options in the 'My Voice' tab.

  • Watch this short video to learn to create a new discussion thread in Voicethread.

  • Watch this short video for ideas on how to teach using Voicethread.

Relevant Literature: