What’s Going On, Technologically Speaking

I’ve been tinkering lately with technology. Well, more than tinkering; using. First, one of the tech guys introduced me to a digital voice recorder: An Olympus DS-2. After going back and forth re: the pros and cons of using the iPod and a mic attachment, he produced the voice recorder. It is easy to use, and, following some initial trepidation on the part of the students - my Spanish 2’s, to be exact - they actually enjoyed the experience. The digital voice recorder produces WMA files, which I converted to MP3 files using freeware: Zamzar.com.

With respect to the iPod, I identified a mic which is compatible with my iPod classic: Griffin Technology iTalk Pro Voice Recorder. It snaps onto the bottom of the iPod, and records beautifully.

Two days ago, I created an MP3 file of some vocabulary for my eighth grade Spanish 1’s. One student has even downloaded it to his iPhone. Cool. I thought to have the audio for the words would be helpful, especially since I teach a range of learners.

I used an online flashcard website called Flashcardmachine.com for my Spanish 1’s. It is an electronic database for flashcards. It allows one to access the complete library of flashcard sets by subject and grade created by others. It also allows students and teachers to create and use flashcards compatible with the textbooks they are using.

Last, I’ve been exploring Voice Thread. It’s cool. I just don’t know how I am going to use it. I would, however, like to do a Wiki with my Spanish 1’s. We’re doing sports, and, it may prove to be a nice in-class mini project.

Anyhoo…