Blog #6

Audio Production Project

How Audacity was Used in the Project

For this assignment, we used Audacity, an audio production software. The assignment had us to download Audacity and the Lame MP3 encoder to get started. The directions stated that the project was to be designed similar to a Podcast. The assignment was to produce an audio file that explained the differences between an audio file that can be downloaded from a website versus a true Podcast.

First, I researched the differences and then wrote out a script to follow for my recording. I found a wonderful website that help in explaining the differences between the audio files and a Podcast. The website is http://www.bgsu.edu/cconline/krause1/index.html. I use a lot of the information from his site in my audio production project.

Next, I created my recording using Audacity. My recording had music playing softly in the background. The music was provided by www.danosongs.com. This site gives permission to use the tracks as music for websites, blogs, Podcasts, and anything else you can think of. After I finished the recording, I had to export it as an MP3 file. Once the MP3 file was created, I then uploaded the files to my comp account and set up the HTML code to include the file with this blog.

Below is the file that I created. Enjoy!!





Obstacles Encountered

Using Audacity was extremely easy. The tutorials I watched made how to use the program very clear and easy to understand. I did not have any problems with Audacity. The only problem I had was making myself happy with the way I sounded on the audio.

I recorded the script about five times before I was somewhat pleased with the production. It was easy to make mistakes when talking or have an unexpected noise, like the phone ringing, which would make me have to start the recording again. However, I kept going and was successful in making the audio production.

The other obstacle I encountered was in regard to the music being played in the audio production. I was really concerned with copyright issues after reading the tutorials. Copyright issues are so controversial and I wanted to make sure that I was keeping my recording legal.

Obstacles Resolved

I don't know that I could ever resolve the obstacle of being happy with the way I sound on the recording. I kept recording the script until I thought the recording was acceptable. So, I guess obstacle was resolved by not giving up!

I resolved the music issue by using google. I searched for free music for Podcasting and came across this website, www.danosongs.com. This site gives permission to use the tracks as music for websites, blogs, Podcasts, and anything else you can think of as long as you credited the site. He was very clear about his music being free to use as long as you link to his webpage. So, I downloaded one of his songs and have given him credit; therefore, the issue was resolved.

Successes Experienced

I felt success by doing the audio recording because I have never done one before. This was my first experience with Audacity and felt it was an easy to use program. I felt successful because I really did not run into any technical problems with the project and was able to produce the audio production. When you don't have problems you can't help but feel success!

How to use Audio Recorder/Editor for Future Projects

I have not used Audacity before and to be honest I did not know a true definition of Podcasting. I would like to pursue Podcasting and find out more details on it. Since I am a teacher, I believe Audacity or a Podcast would be a beneficial addition to my website. So many students are absent and could benefit from listening to the lessons they have missed. I plan to try to add the use of an audio recorder to my site next year.