What+Do+I+Do?

=**Aren't Voice Threads cool? Now, how can we get started?**=

1. Create an idea to use for a Voice Thread.
Will it be an existing Powerpoint that you would like student responses? Will you create a Powerpoint where students have to respond to a question given about an existing book or modeling other strategies? Will your students take photographs of a field trip, a project, or for another reason, then report on it? The possibilities are endless!

2. What type of images will you use?
Your choices are documents, photo files, video files, even a URL. Need help with images? Two copyright friendly picture sites are: Pics4Learning: [] EduPic: []

3. Create a Voice Thread account.
This is fast and easy. All you need is an email and a password. Choose something that your students will be able to remember (as well as you), something like "classroom" or "fifth".

4. Create your Voice Thread.
Whichever medium you have chosen to do, you can upload and change the order (as needed) before students are even ready to record! Click on the "Create" tab and get to work!

5. Create identities for your students.
You can upload pictures for your students, they can create avatars on companion websites, or have the VT randomly pick a symbol for your students (looking strangely like Monopoly pieces!). Either way you choose, all you need to do is select "my identities" from the drop down menu next to your email address (top right hand corner of the screen). A pop up box will appear that will help you add your students names. This gives them their own "identity" under your account, so that they can comment. To switch identities during a Voice Thread, you simply click on the picture on the bottom left of the VT, and select the correct identity.

6. Comment.
Comments can be made in several different ways: record (through a microphone), call in (limited number of these for a free account), typing, and webcam. I have often used a microphone with my students, but sometimes the typing comes in handy (during "technical difficulties"), depending on the project.

7. Options.
Several options are available while you "edit" your VT (located on the bottom of the screen). There are playback options, exporting to a file, embedding your VT in a blog or wiki, and publishing options. While these help enhance your presentation, if you want your VT to become "public," then make sure to check the appropriate boxes under "publishing options." This will allow others to see and comment on your VT.

8. Enjoy!
You have created a multimedia presentation with your students! It's a great way to assess knowledge of a subject, strategy, characteristic, etc. versus the traditional pencil and paper. Welcome to 21st Century Learning! :)

How Can VT enhance your instruction?
For example: Take this, which you can show students and discuss afterwards....... media type="custom" key="4846127"

and turn it into this.....
a more interactive way of learning! Students can watch independently, either in computer lab or as a homework assignment, pause the video, and comment on the sections as they watch it!!! media type="custom" key="4868771"