VoiceThread Overview and Use Cases for Faculty
VoiceThread (VT) is an interactive collaboration and sharing tool that enables faculty or students to build online presentations by adding images, documents, and videos, audio, and other media to which other users can add comments.
VoiceThread is best suited for:
- Small to medium size classes
- Instructors who are willing to learn how to use VoiceThread
- Create assignments you plan to re-use the assignment
VoiceThread Use Cases:
- Unfolding case studies
- Practice case presentations
- Student and faculty icebreakers and introductions
- Virtual field trips
Instructor Orientation/Training
While no training is necessary to use VoiceThread, these tutorials can give you an introduction to this tool.
Instructor Responsibilities
How to request access to VoiceThread:
- VoiceThread uses LTI to integrate into Canvas. To set up VT, open your course and navigate to the Setting page where you will select the Apps tab. Search for the VoiceThread LTI and select +Add App. You will be asked for the Consumer Key and Shared Secret.
- All University of Michigan faculty already have access to VoiceThread, and the only system requirement is an up-to-date version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
How to Configure/Set up VoiceThread
- VT is integrated into Canvas; students and instructors enrolled in the course are automatically enrolled in VT. If the user is new to VT, an account will be created for that person the first time they sign on. VT is integrated with the gradebook. You can create graded assignments in VT. You can assign students to create their own VT, comment on one of yours, or simply watch a lecture and receive a grade. Assignments are graded in VoiceThread, and grades are sent back to Canvas grades seamlessly.
- Make sure you are logged into your Umich account in order to access your University of Michigan VoiceThread account. This is especially important because the free version of VoiceThread has limited space capacity, which can cause student frustration during the term.
Note: There is a free, non-UMSN version of VoiceThread available. If you set up your account independently, you are likely to register with the free version.
Testing
- There is no mandatory testing process for VoiceThread, but it is recommended that you practice with the software before the beginning of the term
Previously Identified Student Roadblocks
None identified at this time.
VoiceThread Course Prep Checklist
- Activate VoiceThread in your course site
- Create assignments
- Test assignments
- Set up VoiceThread course policies and student instructions
- Check settings
Depending on your course needs, you may need additional items in your checklist. Feel free to schedule an appointment with an instructional designer for a more personalized VoiceThread orientation.
How to Get Help
For assistance, you can:
Instructor FAQs
VoiceThread Quick Links