5.+Appropriate+use+for+audio+technologies

The appropriate use for those technologies

The following are the different uses for audio technologies in e-learning.

With a podcast an e-learner can download information in a variety of formats. The information can be available in audio or audio with images. According to Learning in Hand a podcast can “have chapter markers, making it easier to skip to different portions of an episode.”("Podcasting", 2011, para. 5). With podcasting a facilitator for an e-learning class can create a variety of podcasts to provide learners with the materials necessary for the class. With either audio only or video format the e-learner can listen and or watch the podcast as assigned by the facilitator. The learner will need to have access to a computer, IPod, IPad, MP3 player or an e-notebook.
 * The Podcast**

By using audio books the e-learner can have access to books in just about any setting. Most audio books are either in cassette or Compact Disc (CD) format. The portability of both devices can make this an appealing option for e-learners. Unlike a podcast this method does not allow for any visual stimuli. It does however, allow for more convenient access because it does not require a computer, IPod or IPad.
 * Audio Books**

Microphones can assist the e-learner in verbally participating in a discussion via Podcast if the Podcast is designed to be interactive. Since many e-learning requires for group work the microphone can be used to communicate with group members if the members decide to communicate via Skype or a similar method.
 * Microphones**

Web audios can be used to enhance the e-learning experience by providing audio to any written information. A facilitator can imbed a Web Audio files in a lesson that the students may have to read. The audio can be available at certain points to clarify what is in the text. This will enhance the e-learners experience by providing more than the printed word.
 * Web Audios**

Head phones can be used by e-learners in any situation where audio is being used. The head phones can be of dual purpose. If the e-learner needs to concentrate and there is ambient noise that may be distracting, the head phones can deliver only the desired audio. Another use is when the e-learner needs to listen to the educational audio but the setting do not allow noise. The e-learner can listen to the information without disturbing others.
 * Head Phones**

There is a variety of e-learning software that can assist a facilitator in creating an online course. By using this software the facilitator can enhance the lessons by adding flash animation, audio and audio visual videos. The software is designed to assist in the creation and editing process of the online course. This can assist the e-learner in experiencing an interactive and diverse learning environment.
 * E-learning Software**

Podcasting. (2011). Retrieved from http://learninginhand.com/podcasting/
 * References**