{"id":3062,"date":"2019-11-07T09:30:42","date_gmt":"2019-11-07T14:30:42","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/teachersfirst.com\/blog\/?p=3062"},"modified":"2019-12-16T00:44:33","modified_gmt":"2019-12-16T05:44:33","slug":"tech-tool-of-the-month-synth-part-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/teachersfirst.org\/blog\/2019\/11\/tech-tool-of-the-month-synth-part-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Tech Tool of the Month: Synth Part 2"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a>Synth is a user-friendly podcasting tool. <\/span>The site allows users to create audio recordings up to 256 seconds long. Yesterday’s blog, Synth Part 1<\/a>, gave an overview of this tool. The overview also included the application of both the SAMR model and the Triple E Frameworks as you integrate Synth into your instruction. Today’s post offers detailed instructions to get you started using Synth plus classroom use ideas by content area.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to use Synth<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

When you arrive at the main page, you will be asked to log in or sign up. You can use your Google or Twitter login, or create an account with an email.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Remember, if you don\u2019t want students to have to register for an account, you can provide them with a direct link (or a participation code) to the Synth question.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Now that you are registered, it is time to begin! When you are ready to record your Synth, click the red + at the top right side of your page. There are also links to the Feed, Explore, and Podcasts (more on that later). Notice the white paper icon on the bottom left side of the page. This is a <\/span>Help<\/span><\/i> button. I asked questions several times and received very timely feedback answering my questions. This <\/span>Help<\/span><\/i> icon is on every page.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Once you click to begin recording, you will be taken to a simple page to begin your podcast. The slider on the bottom right side allows you to choose between audio or audio with video. Remember, you only have 256 seconds.<\/span><\/p>\n

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When you click the red button again to stop, you will see this screen. You have the option to continue recording (by clicking the red button again). This is great for students who may need to take a break and regroup their thoughts, or if working with a partner and want to switch speakers. This offers a natural break and is not noticeable when the podcast is finished. The small gray arrow allows you to listen to what you have completed. Once finished, click Done.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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The next screen will ask if you want the Transcription On (the slider at the top of the screen). This is very helpful for any time that you want to see what students are saying, in addition to hearing the podcast. This is also your opportunity to go back and Re-record. If you are satisfied with your Synth, you can click the music note to add an introduction or transition sounds. When finished click, Next.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Adding sounds is very simple. Once you click the music note, you will see several categories of sounds. Each category includes 3-5 options. You can click to preview the sounds before you make your choice. Sound is an option, not a requirement.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Next, you are lead to the page to add your title, any links, hashtags, etc. This tool truly is easy to use and walks you through the process step-by-step.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Once you hit the Publish button on the final page, your podcast is ready to go! The button on the bottom right allows you to create a thread. This is also the link that you will share with students, who can create a thread to add to your podcast (if collaborating). To share the podcast with your students, click the share icon (arrow).\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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This is the view that you will see when you click to share the podcast. The easiest way to share the podcast is by using the hyperlink. If you want students to be able to add to your Synth podcast, consider using the hyperlink + Code option to allow students access to add and create a thread. There is also an option to embed your podcast (on to your class website).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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One other area that you may want to view for inspiration is the Explore button on Synth. Here you will find many published Synths by other users. Some may be useful to share in class, while others may get your creative juices flowing with new ways to use Synth.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Classroom Use Ideas<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Synth is a tool that can be integrated across various subject areas. For example, have students interview each other to create a Synth. It fosters active student participation and engagement through creating podcasts. This is an excellent activity for the beginning of the school year. Podcasts offer an alternative way to assess students rather than using tests or other traditional paper\/pencil assignments.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Social Studies:<\/strong><\/p>\n