This blog is dedicated to assisting teachers in integrating Information Communication Technology, or eLearning tools into their classrooms. Here you will find sample lessons, uses for eLearning tools, bookmarks to different tools, video tutorials and classroom management tips.
The ease of music creation in Soundation means it lend itself to a wide range of possible uses. It is quick and easy to make music. The loops are all in key with each other, and adjust their speed to the set BMP, so it is just click and drag.
This is the service that I used to create the background music for the Edvertisment videos. The footage for the Edvertisement video above was the entire production of the song below.
Soundation is also powerful enough to create complex pieces of music. Unlimited tracks, effects and automation will please the most demanding composer.
Soundation is a freemium service, which means that you can pay for more features. These features include extra loop libraries, and the capacity to record straight into Soundation.
Using in the Classroom
Soundation uses fall into two categories. The first use is as a source of music for production purposes. Soundation creaes royalties free music that can for use in anything which requires a backing track.
A second way I've had students use Soundation is for them to create backing tracks that they can then rap over or sign over. I have found this effective in with some students whom I was struggling to engage.
How do I get started?
You can get to Soundation by going to soundation.com. You can create an account, or just log in using your Google account.
The site has a pretty good 'How to' section, including some helpful videos.
Do I need a paid account?
The two reasons you would have a paid account is more loops, and being able to record straight into Soundation. I have used Soundation for many years, without a paid account and this is why.
The number of loops available provide plenty of scope for a wide range of music, so I see no need to buy more. Secondly, to record, download the wav file, import it into a free audio software (like audacity) and record in there.
These tools help users collate their references whilst writing and researching. When users have finished their work, the tools will generate a bibliography for the end of the document. Both tools allow for different styles of referencing, including APA, and allow for different types of sources.
There is one notable difference. The Word tool requires users to enter the source details. With the Google Docs tool, the user enters the source and the tool searches the web for the details. At the time of writing, the Google Doc tool has no way to manually enter details, although the developers have promised it soon.
Getting started
Microsoft Word
Word comes with a built in referencing tool, all you have to do is start using it. The video bleow show you how to use the referencing tool in 2013.
Google Docs
To use the referencing tool in Google Docs you first need to install the add-on from EasyBib. The video below show you how to install and use the EasyBib tool.
ThingLink has many uses in class. I have already written about it's use as an interactive infographic tool. If you, or your students analyse images in anyway, then ThingLink can be used. Below is a ThingLink where I have analysed a graphic design using the CARP principles.
