Audacity

**Audacity ****__Overview__ Audacity is easy-to-use recording software that allows students to record and play back multi-track recordings.

__Features:__ **
 * One-stop toolbar with all of the functions needed to record multiple tracks.
 * Free downloadable software

=** __Strengths__: **=


 * Easy to use
 * Can layer tracks; students can put music behind their voices for more professional-sounding recordings
 * Free!

=** __Weaknesses__: **=

= = =** __ Before using: __ **=
 * Records in .aup format; need a lame encoder in order to transfer to .mp3 files (which is necessary in order to use files for podcasts).
 * Quality of recording can depend on hardware, ambient noise, etc.

= = = = =** __Best Practices__ **= = = Best Practice #1 - Podcasting Students generate scripts for presentation, record the script using Audacity, convert the file from .aup to .mp3, and then upload to your preferred website. In addition to publishing your audio file on your website, you can also submit a link to your file to iTunes. They will then include your podcast under the Education section of the iTunes podcasting page. (note: iTunes does not actually host your file, they only provide a link). Podcasting is a good option for students and teachers alike. Students can create and upload presentations in a setting that is as public as you, the teacher, are comfortable with. The audio files can be private and accessible to only the class, or can be completely public. This forces students to consider audience, appropriateness, and presentability. Teachers can also use podcasting to broadcast lecture notes or lessons, or to connect with students for other purposes outside of the classroom.
 * Download software AND lame encoder (which is also free software - google "lame encoder" and download from any reputable source)
 * Be aware that background sounds and microphone quality can effect quality of recording - set up a quiet space for recording sessions.
 * If using this as a podcast, you should set up a website for hosting the .mp3 files (Wikispaces is a good option)

Best Practice #2 - Oral Presentations Audacity is a good option for recording student oral presentations without taking up valuable class time. Public speaking and foreign language teachers can use Audacity files to assess student learning, and can either record extemporaneous speech for assessment (i.e. recording the speeches as they are made in real time and assessing them at a later point) or can ask students to record on their own and post to a website as designated by the teacher (although it should be noted that students are able to edit these files and cut out "wrong" responses).