1. Valdosta State University
Using Online Tools to Stimulate Presentational Speaking Skills among International Students
Victoria Russell, Associate Professor of Spanish & Foreign Language Education
Valdosta State University
CRIE Conference
2018

2. VoiceThread
VoiceThread (VT) is a discussion board where students may post audio, video, and/or text-based responses.
Up to four VTs may be created for free.
VoiceThread login: hint (GoView)

3. Benefits of VoiceThread
Auto input
Students write scripts and practice before posting
Deeper engagement than traditional written discussion boards
Student interest and motivation is increased by alternating VT discussions with traditional discussion boards

4. Example Note: You must be signed into VT to open the link below.
This is the VT that I created at the conference to demonstrate this tool. Feel free to use it for practice.

5. VoiceThread in 5 Steps (1)
Sign up for a free account
Go to
Select “Register” from the upper left portion of the screen
Go to the “Home” area at the top left portion of the screen and sign in
Select “Create,” and add your media (Ppt. file, image, video, etc.)

6. VoiceThread in 5 Steps (2)
4. Comment on your media by hovering over and selecting the “Comment” area at the bottom center of the page. You will have four options:
A written text message
An audio recording using your phone
An audio recording using an external microphone
An audio/video response using your web cam
Upload a previously recorded comment

7. VoiceThread in 5 Steps (3)
5. Share your VT with your students:
After commenting on your media, select the “X” in the upper right hand corner of the screen
Select the “Share” button
Allow anyone with the link to “View” and “Comment”
Copy the link or the embed code to embed in your course
Or, post it on FB or Twitter
Remind attendees that they only get four free VTs. If they want to create new ones, they will have to delete the old ones by selecting the “trash can/delete button” on the main slide page and also by deleting the VT from their trash can (on left hand portion of screen).

8. Other Voice Recording Tools
Open Access (Free) Resources:
Vocaroo.com
Online-voice-recorder.com
Speakpipe.com/voice-recorder

9. TalkAbroad for Synchronous Speaking Practice
TalkAbroad (TA) is a synchronous conversation tool where students engage in 30 min. conversations with native speakers of a foreign language.
Conversations may be downloaded or played on TA website.
This would be a great resource for students who are preparing for the TOEFL.

10. TalkAbroad for Synchronous Speaking Practice
The instructor may provide guiding questions and all conversations are recorded and stored on the TalkAbroad Website.
There is a fee: Four conversations ($45) or $15 per conversation.

11. TalkAbroad
While TalkAbroad is a tool that is specific for language learning, it has revolutionized online language class delivery because it allows students to practice in the interpersonal mode of communication (synchronously).
In addition, students may schedule conversations at their convenience.

15. Other Conversation Tools
Free tools:
WeSpeke
HelloTalk (mobile app)
Products for Purchase:
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16. Other Conversation Tools

17. Digital Storytelling
Digital storytelling is the practice of using computer-based tools to tell stories. Typically, digital stories combine text, digital images, recorded audio narration, and/or music.

18. Photo Story 3
This presentation will demonstrate how to use Photo Story 3, a free application, to create digital stories.
Photo Story 3 is an easy way to add motion to still images via panning and zooming (the Ken Burns effect).

19. Benefits of Digital Stories
Students engage in presentational speaking
Learners benefit from auto input
Photos, images, and music can be used to create a meaningful cultural context
Students may express their creativity
Meaningful use of technology

20. Digital Storytelling Across the Curriculum
Digital storytelling helps language students practice speaking & pronunciation skills
How could digital storytelling be used in other disciplines?
Could digital stories be used in your classes? If so, how?

21. Creating a Digital Story
To get started, you will need to do the following:
Download Photo Story 3
Gather 10 – 15 digital photos for your video
Select your background music (MP3 file)

22. 7 Key Steps Import and arrange your pictures
Add titles to selected slides
Adjust the custom motion (panning and zooming) as needed
Type in script and record narration for each slide
Select music and volume level
Be sure to “Save Project” for future editing
Save “For Playback on your Computer” (MP4 file)

23. Free Resources
Photostory Tutorial: PhotoStory Website:

24. Live Demonstration

25. Contact: varussell@valdosta.edu
Questions?
Contact: