In her article from Edutopia, Laila Weir, explores the educational value of VoiceThread, a Web 2.0 tool that she describes as an "interactive media album." Weir looks at how one teacher, Bill Ferriter, has used VoiceThread in his sixth grade humanities class to extend his classroom and the learning process.
Ferriter argues that students participate more actively in digital discussions than in classroom discussion, because they feel safer about making comments online and they prefer the multiple conversation format of VoiceThread. Ferriter has used VoiceThread to encourage his students to engage in free writing and collaborative conversations.
I agree that the education applications of Voicethread are vast. Voicethread touches on all of the NETS standards for students. However, the standard I find most challenging is digitial citizenship. When using Voicethread it is critical that students understand and respect the cultural, human and social issues tied to using technology ethically, in this case digital communication and collaboration. The same as in a face to face classroom discussions with the teacher present, students must demonstrate a positive and respectful attitude when creating and commenting on VoiceThread.
As a teacher, I would use VoiceThread both inside and outside the classroom in all subject matters. It is a powerful tool for teaching and learning, especially in extending learning beyond the classroom. Students will want to participate in VoiceThread learning forums because they are cutting edge, fun and creative.
Weir, L. (2008). VoiceThread Extends the Classroom with Interactive Multimedia Albums. Edutopia. http://www.edutopia.org/voicethread-interactive-multimedia-albums
Hey Julie,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed using VoiceThread in class. It was a lot of fun and allowed us to collaborate with others and find a picture that we thought was relevent to our life, or maybe just something funny. I feel like this would be an amazing resource to use in a classroom. I liked how you pointed out that VoiceThread allows students to practice digital citizenship, as this is important when using technology. I also like how it gives students a chance to work on their writing and communication skills. Great post Julie!
-Mercedez