Digital Recording

Digital recorders can be used in the classroom for many purposes. Some of the more common ones include providing audio for texts, practicing speaking, creating podcasts, recording conversations, delivering focus lessons, and more. This post features tools and ideas on what is needed to make digital recording happen for you.

Your computer is one option for digital recordings. You can record on a computer in a variety of ways, but which way is best depends on what you are trying to do. Here are some options for you:



1. PodOmatic- Sign-up required, multi-step process/ moderately complex, unlimited recording length, lets you download files as mp3 and share as a link, you can add images to make creative podcasts. Here is a video that shows how to use it:



2. Vocaroo- Very simple, no sign up required, gives you a link. Does allow you to save as an ogg file (diff video file type), and it seems there are no length restrictions.

3. One of the best ways to create and edit audio recording for free is to use Audacity software. It's a free download. You can record any audio, and, if you download the mp3 converter, you can save the file as an mp3. Then you will be able to share the file in a way that is easy for others to access and download. This option is somewhat more complex, but you can do many more things such as add music in the background and edit mistakes rather easily.

Other Tools


This is a digital voice recorder. It's a stand-alone device that essentially records whatever sound it picks up; in this case, your voice. Once recorded, you can add the files to your computer by USB or memory card, depending on the device. They are simple to use and more portable than a computer. Most recorders have a screen that you use to navigate and control the functions.

Smartphones and iPods

1. Any cell/smartphone, iPod Touch, or other music player with a built-in microphone can be used to make audio recordings. It will work differently with each device, but if you search how to do it, it should be a simple process. Many devices have a default sound recorder, but here are some apps you can use as well:

• Android Free App- HI-Q MP3 Recorder (10 min. max per recording, can share/save easily, no pause button)

• Android Paid App- Ku Voice Recorder (unlimited recording time, can pause and resume, costs $2.80)

• iPhone/iPad Free App- Smart Recorder lite (unlimited recording time, other features to explore)

2. You can make an iPod into a recorder. Many low-cost products are available that can be used to make iPods record. All you have to do is plug them in, and the recordings are saved on the device. You can later upload them to a computer and share as needed. Here is one example: Mini Microphone. Watch the video below to see how to upload a voice recording (voice memo) from your iPod to your computer: