Recording audio for learning and assessment

Ms. Fillafer at the Middle School a few weeks ago asked for an idea for having students submit recordings of band instrument practice. There were several options, but the one we went with is called AudioBoom, formerly AudioBoo. This web-based app (also a mobile app) allows her students to create an account, and with very little difficulty to record files of themselves playing assigned scales or other pieces.

The recording results in a unique web address, which students copy into a Google Form Ms. Fillafer has set up to collect the link and other related information.

The result is a way for students to stay accountable to their endeavors in band class, but also allows the teacher the opportunity to do formative assessment on select students and also create an archive so students can see their own progress.

Where else could this process be beneficial?  Just a few ideas:

• World language recitations
• Speech/language practice
• Radio show/advertising/voice-over project in almost any setting
• Voice journal during labs or experiments
• Poetry readings
• Reading fluency practice
• Students practicing leaving professional phone messages

There are many tools that can be easily used for voice capture, each of which tends to be a bit less bulky and hard to manage as recording full video. Some learning tasks are suited perfectly for this kind of tool. Where could it enhance or simplify lessons in your realm?

Access the tool: audioboom.com