Welcome to the Using Audio Tools in Education section of my portfolio.

The artifact that is attached is an example of Standard 5 under the National Educational Technology Standards because it demonstrates an efficient way to use of digital tools and resources.  This project demonstrates an understanding of the use of digital tools as well as the influence of technology in a classroom setting. This audio-book will be used in a first grade classroom at Groton Elementary School, the book created for this project is, David Gets in Trouble by David Shannon and was created using iMovie during my practicum. The accessibility that audio books have is very crucial in the world we live in. People are always on the go and children may not get enough practice reading books. With the creation of iPods and CD players children can access audio books very easily (Kassulke , 2008, p.1). Also with the accessibility that technology brings there are also millions of apps being created that are encouraging children to read because of the interaction that they can have on the app.” Unlike e-readers, which typically reproduce a traditional book experience on an electronic screen, these apps can offer animation, music, and many interactive features. "It's a whole different content creation mechanism” (Springen, 2010, p.1). Children can now not only read the books but also do different activities that go with the book such as matching games.

Learning proper English is one way that audio books can be beneficial."There is no suitable method other than audio books to help children proper pronunciation” (Kassulke ,2008, p.1). This can come into use when children are having speech impediment issues. Learning a language takes a lot of practice, with the help of audio books children can become more fluent with the help of using an audio book to hear words repeated. This can be very important for ESL students. They can learn English very quickly if they practice and can hear the proper pronunciation for words. Students all learn in various ways, so to switch up from the normal routine and to use an audio book can be a great way to engage students. Also, audio books require the skill of listening. Children must really focus and listen to each word to be able to get the main idea since there aren’t any pictures involved. Teachers can also benefit from the use of audio books. A great way to settle down students in the morning is to put on an audio book and the teacher can do morning attendance or set things up for the day. Therefore time is not wasted and the students are already starting to think and be engaged.

References

Corbell, J. R., & Valdes-Corbell, M. E. (2007). Are you ready for mobile learning?. Retrieved from http://www.educause.edu/ero/article/are-you-ready-mobile-learning

Kassulke, T. (2008). Benefits of buying educational audio books for your child. Retrievedfrom http://ezinearticles.com/?Benefits-Of-Buying-Educational-Audio-Books-For-Your-Child&id=988748

Shannon, D. (2002). David gets in trouble. Blue Sky Press.

Springen , K. (2010, Apr 08). Publishers weekly. Retrieved from http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/42762 the-ipad-meets-the-children-s-book.html