Voice Thread

Voicethread

Voicethread is a tool which allows you to add commentary to images instead of static text. It also has a pen feature to draw the viewer's attention to a certain part of the image.   The program allows educators to create their own community of users.  Applications for this tool might include students working together on a book review.  In maths, students could explain for example different strategies for adding two two digit numbers.  In visual arts it could be used in an art appreciation lesson on a particular artist. For those students who lack confidence presenting in person to their peers they may find this tool valuable delivering their presentation online.  It would allow esl learners to listen to stretches of language.  It can be used as an assessment tool by creating an document and invite people to comment in a collaborative voice thread.

The concerns I have is the workload for the teacher in moderating this community.  The authors encourage collaboration with other educators to become part of a global learning community. This operates like facebook where other users can be invited to join your community. Privacy issues may well be a concern for teachers and parents.   I would definitely trial this tool but restrict its usage initally for explaining difficult concepts on a class blog.