8/3/2019 aPLaNet ICT Tools Factsheets_Category2_Voice Discussion Tools

1/2

1

The project Autonomous Personal Learning Networks for Language Teachers has been funded with support from the

European Commission. This document reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible

for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

Category NumberII

Voice discussion tools

Keywords

voice messages, speaking skills, time/distance barriers, vocalize

URL address of suggested tools

VoiceThread http://voicethread.com

Voxopop www.voxopop.com

Other suggested tools

Xtranormal www.xtranormal.com

Rationale

The importance of interpersonal communication inside and outside the classroom is undeniable. By using onlinecommunication tools distance and time barriers are being lowered. Voice discussion tools can become a useful part ofclassroom practice and allow distance learning to be more effective. To make communication more dynamic we use new

resources to improve students communication skills. Students can communicate with other studen ts and/or teachers,practice listening and speaking in target language and at the same time develop their ICT skills. Voice discussion tools enablestudents and teacher use speaking instead of writing which is a way to let students express themselves in target languageusing speech.

Description

Voice discussion tools enable learners and teachers to record their voice messages and share them with others. They can

also use these tools to comment on other peoples opinions and other contributions. It is not necessary to be online at the

same time as other contributors as you can record your message, send it to the system and when others are online they can

listen to your message and record their comments.

These tools allow group discussions not dependent on time and location. Therefore discussions on different topics can beheld among students and teachers all over the world.

Resources required

No special resources are required. Voice discussion tools are user-friendly and very simple and even less technically skilledusers can handle them.

Obligatory resourcesTo use voice discussion tools and ensure a smooth and high quality transmission we need:

reliable and stable Internet connection (preferably broadband) desktop computer or laptop microphone and speakers, or a headset to record and listen to messages

Optional resources

built-in or external web cameraCostSuggested tools

Voxopop: Free VoiceThread:Partially (e.g.special functions for schools and classes are paid)

Other suggested tools

Xtranormal: Partially (free version has a limited content)

8/3/2019 aPLaNet ICT Tools Factsheets_Category2_Voice Discussion Tools

2/2

2

The project Autonomous Personal Learning Networks for Language Teachers has been funded with support from the

European Commission. This document reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible

for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

Implementation methodology

To use voice discussion tools in a classroom the classroom needs to be equipped with computers or laptops and the Internet

connection. Each student and teacher needs a headset or a microphone and speakers to record and listen to messages.

Teachers need to be trained how to use computers, the internet and the online tools so they are able to instruct their students.

We can use voice discussion tools in following classroom situations:

Start classroom discussions on topics that will promote conversation and discussion among students. Deliver long-distance classes. Professional development training. Share opinions using voice messages. Practice task-based learning and design collaborative activities. Create homework activities. Practice speaking skills, vocabulary, pronunciation and ability to understand recorded messages. Promote foreign language learning through reciprocal peer communication. Alternative way to do class presentations.

Other issues

Before starting using the tools in the classroom some time needs to be invested in registration and setting up users account s.Basic introduction of each tool and showing students how they work is essential.

Useful tips

It is possible to share recorded messages through email and social networks and/or embed them into blogs and websites.

.

This Factsheet is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-Share Alike 2.0 License. To view a

copy of this licence, visithttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/uk/

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/uk/http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/uk/http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/uk/http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/uk/