Equipment

=Equipment=

Basically, you don't need anything to __participate__ in a VoiceThread except a computer with Internet access and a free VoiceThread account. Your students can use their keyboard to key in text if they do not have a microphone or webcam. There is even an option to call in using a cell phone; however, that option limits the amount of time considerably.

To __create__ a VoiceThread, you will need media to make up your slides (such as an image, a video, a PowerPoint slide, etc. - file types accepted can be found at this link). Teachers will probably want to add voice and video so here are a few options for you.

Microphones
It is not necessary to spend a lot of money on a microphone. A USB headset with a mic is the best option; however, I've mentioned two other microphones if you need extremely high quality.

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__USB Headphones with Microphone__

Cost: variable, starting at $20 Very good low-cost option Easy to use Versatile since it is easy to transport Samson C01U USB Condenser Microphone Cost: approximately $100 Connects to USB port on your computer Very easy to use

Blue Snowball USB Cost: approximately $100 Connects to USB port on your computer Very easy to use Comes in several colors

Web Cam
A web cam comes standard on most laptops now but if you have a desktop or an older laptop, you can purchase a web cam for around $35 at your local retail or office supply store. The more money you spend, the higher quality the video will be - as a general rule. We have found the lower priced web cam ($35) is fine.

Video Cameras (for creating media)
//Smartphone// cameras are an easy way to capture video; however, most standard digital cameras also have a video option. There are additional inexpensive video cameras available - such as the two listed below.

//Flip Mino HD// Very easy to use. Has a usb arm that "flips" out when you want to transfer video from camera to computer. Will hold about 1 hour of video. Battery charges using the usb arm.

//Kodak Zi8// Also, very easy to use. Has the USB arm that flips out. Will hold additional memory using a standard SD card.