Using ICT for speaking and listening

This week we looked at using ICT to allow for opportunities for speaking and listening.  The use of audio and video supports sustained talking, extends interactivity and allows for instant feedback and reflection on what has been said.

Examples of audio recording devices that can be used in school include the Easi-Speak;Talking Tins; Talk Time Cards; and talking photo albums.  Both of these are simple methods of recording audio.  These are simple methods of recording which will help to develop children's listening skills.  These would be great across the curriculum: for phonics; storytelling; numeracy (e.g. recording number facts); speech and language work; podcasts.

The Easi-Speak looks like a microphone and can record up to 4 hours of audio.  You can record multiple clips, which will come up on your computer when you connect the Easi-Speak and these can be labelled and kept on file to be played back to the children. You could also attach these audio clips to Smart Notebook.  You can find these at www.tts-group.co.uk

The Talking Tins record brief snapshots of speech.  The spoken word can be captured quickly, and reviewed by listening.  You can get ones that record 10 seconds, or ones that record 40 seconds from www.talkingproducts.com


The Talk Time Cards are a white-board with an in-built chip which allows the children to draw or write, and combine this with audio.  These would be great for phonics, number bonding activities, or for creating storyboards.  You can buy these from www.taglearning.com

Talking photo albums are perfect for children to create their own personal story books, with a recording time of 200 minutes.  You can record a separate voice message on each page, and add voice, music or sound effects.  You can get these at www.talkingproducts.com

Podcasting

What is Podcasting and what are the benefits for children?
We also talked about the value of podcasting.  Podcasting is like a radio broadcast, but instead of being live, it is recorded and then distributed on the internet.  Podcasting is a brilliant way for children to share their work and experiences with an audience, whilst developing their speaking and listening skills. The benefits are that the children develop: ICT skills; literacy skills (e.g. writing scripts, setting up interviews); skills in working as a team (when working on a podcast as a group).  Also, the audience may provide feedback for the children's work, making the process interactive. 

How do I make a Podcast?
To make a podcast you need a computer, and a recording device (e.g. Easi-Speak).  You will also need recording software, such as Audacity (http://audacity.sourceforge.net/).  Audacity is free and allows you to record audio and export it as an mp3 file. 

What can I put in a Podcast?

• school news- an innovative way to let the parents know the latest school news!
• children's work- have children record their stories written in literacy, or reflect on activities done in school.
• national or international news
• interviews by children with their peers, staff, or members of the community

Examples of primary podcast can be found at www.downsfm.com

Make sure to remember e-safety! Remind children not to reveal personal information.

That's it from me this week :-) I will be back next time to talk about computer programming!