Stephanie+Papak+-


 * What: ** Audacity (audio recording)
 * Web Address: ** @http://audacity.sourceforge.net/
 * Student's Name: **Stephanie Papak
 * Grade Levels: **All
 * Content Areas: **World languages (but could be used in other content areas in need of audio recording - for projects or class recordings - as well)


 * Abstract: ** Anyone who has ever taught a language knows that listening comprehension is a big part of it. But often times audio tracks provided by text books are too fast or too slow or filled with too much (or not enough, or not the correct) vocabulary or grammar concepts or are too unrealistic for it to be a genuine culturally relevant audio. In short, though they can be helpful resources, these pre-made audio tracks are not always the best. Enter Audacity audio recording. This program, which you can download from your internet browser to fit any PC or MAC computer, allows you to record and edit your own audio and save it to you computer in a multitude of file formats (WAV, MP3, etc.) to fit your needs. You can can then play audio that is focused on the exact concepts you want, as slow or as fast as needed. Because you are the voice in the recording, it also makes the audio tracks more personal for students. Audio can be played at a teacher station in a whole class setting, or students can access and listen to the audio individually for more personalized instruction in a lab or if laptops are available. The download is free and not much installation is required. Recorded files can be saved into a shared folder or posted on websites for individual access at school or at home.


 * Personal Experience: ** I have always thought of recording my own audio for my Spanish classes, but the idea really hit home on Friday while doing a listening activity with my class. I completed a Google search that led me in a lot of different directions with other programs, applications, and websites. However, Audacity seemed the most user-friendly with the best features. Where some other programs would only allow me to save recordings in a format that could only be opened in that particular program, I discovered that I could save my audio files in other formats on Audacity by choosing to "export" them to that format. I was able to begin a digital library of audio recordings that were relevant to the material I would be covering in class. The playback of audio is clear and I was able to change the volume settings. Also, I liked that I had the option to edit audio as I was recording it. I was able to record my piece and if I made a mistake I didn't have to stop and restart again, I could just go back and "cut" that section of audio out, which is a huge time saver. I still haven't discovered all of the editing features, as my needs for this program are rather simple, but it has a lot to offer. For my needs as a Spanish teacher, Audacity provides a great solution to the problem of creating "good" audio for listening comprehension.