Apps that really work in the classroom #1: Audio

Looking for iPad apps that really work in the classroom?

This is the first in a series of posts designed to share the results of my roadtests in the MFL classrooms at Berkhamsted School.

For Modern Languages, apps that effectively allow students to work with audio are tremendously powerful.

Here’s my pick of the best audio apps:

Pros: clean simple interface, easy sharing, scope for peer assessment

Cons: individual student signup required, some distraction from exploring random music possible.

Ideal if you want students to edit audio – but I have found we rarely have time in class. It would work nicely for preparing slicker audio files, perhaps for podcasts.

 

Soundnote (£2.99)

This works well if you want to connect a piece of text and an audio file eg. for controlled assessment or an interview in a pleasingly simple interface. My older students have enjoyed using it as you can email the text file with or without audio attached.

Voicereader (£ 1.49)

This is a really handy text-to-voice app for language learners. Type or copy your text in and a native speaker will read it back to you with a beautiful accent and perfect intonation. There are 21 languages available and choice between male and female voices. Very useful for preparing speaking work.

This iPod app is fine for quick recordings but there is a limit on size in the free version which is really… limiting. It might work well with younger learners.