M. Good’s Blog

Matt Good
MODL 5308

Assignment 4: Using Audio

In this assignment, the primary learning goals were to reinforce the correct usage of third person preterite verbs in Spanish. The assignment lent itself well to an audio enhanced format in the form of a listening comprehension activity for several reasons. Primarily, comprehension is a vital precursor to language comprehension. A student must be able to correctly identify and understand the language before they are able to produce it in any context. In this aspect, this reinforces not only the verb forms utilized but also the student’s ability to comprehend actual language. Secondly, an audio format requires the student to be actively engaged in the assignment. In a written form the students can simply look for the verb ending without having to identify the meaning of the verb and what was being said.

As with my previous technology based assignments, the needs and constraints of the students are addressed by the classroom presentation. This assures that all students have easy and ready access to the desired material. The only resources necessary would be a computer and speakers with the required audio file.

Using the Audacity software was actually very easy for me in both the initial recording and the editing portion and I would highly recommend it especially since it both free and user friendly.

I feel that the implementation of the lesson actually went very well. Although the lesson was not carried out in its entirety, I believe that the overall effectiveness was displayed and the feedback from the class seemed rather positive. Considering the pace and vocabulary used, I do think that this would be better implemented in a level 3 or level 4 class.

Considering that the initial design of the lesson was intended for intermediate to advanced level students, I do not, at this time feel the need to make any changes in the lesson. It aims at a higher standard and effectively engaging the students which is key in language instruction. I fully plan to utilize Audacity to make audio clips for my classes in the future.

Resources Used:

Audacity Software
USB Microphone headset
Classroom computer and speakers
Digital projector

Here’s my Assignment 4: a Sports News Broadcast about a minute long. The main focus is for the students to identify different third person preterite verb forms both regular and irregular.

Assignment 4 Audio Clip