VoiceThread Revisited

After a good nights rest I took another crack at VoiceThread.   This time I decided to see what VoiceThread had to offer as an educational tool.

For educators VoiceThread offers a Web based tool that provides a facilitation platform, Ed. VoiceThread.com.  Teachers are able to create interactive slide shows that engage and sustain the attention of individual learners.  They can use this flexible tool in a whole class setting or for individual use.   The very nature of VoiceThread encourages active participation which strengthens student learning and motivation.   This Web tool may be used cross curricular to help meet the needs of all learners.

A VoiceThread Classroom account has a nominal yearly fee, approximately $60.  This price includes a teacher account with the ability to add up to 100 students as well as unlimited VoiceThreads.  Teachers have complete access to student accounts and can moderate comments before they are posted.  VoiceThread can serve as a conversation archive, a digital album that houses ongoing dialogue. VoiceThread extends the walls of the classroom.

Educators may also choose to use VoiceThread as a professional development tool.  Imagine the possibilities of opening an ongoing professional dialogue that will be archived and available for future educators to access.

The Power of Professioanl Conversation 

For students VoiceThread is a forum to share their voices, literally. Students can express their opinions and be heard.  VoiceThread provides students time to compose their thoughts, make meaningful connections, and ask questions. Students can collaborate with one another online and respond directly to others’ comments. VoiceThread is also a means for students to demonstrate their learning, through thoughtful interactive dialogue. Mrs. Mattson's Voicethread is a great example of students working together. 

Check out Ed.VoiceThread for more great ideas.

Readings:
Brunvand, S., & Bryd, S., (2011) Using voicethread to promote learning engagement and
success for all students, Teaching Exceptional Children, 43 (4), 28-37.
B Ferriter. Using voicethread for digital conversations Retrieved from http://digitallyspeaking.pbworks.com/w/page/17791585/Voicethread
J Orlando. (2010, May 12) Using voicethread to build student engagement.