Educational Audio over the Web

Dr Alan Anderson, School of Arts and Social Sciences, School of Commerce and Management, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, 2480. alan.anderson@scu.edu.au

Keywords

Web, audio, technology, education, teaching, training, music technology, VoIP, Internet .

Abstract

Recent advances in consumer grade software for digital audio recording, editing and distribution over the Web have opened the way for its use in various fields of education and training. Nevertheless, educators without prior training or experience of audio production can find it challenging to make 'optimum' use of this technology. In the worst-case scenario, education institutions risk the proliferation of a casual approach to the operation of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) communication and a 'shovel ware' approach to the uploading and distribution of shoddily produced audio content that fails to meet the quality standards upheld for traditional print-based and A/V resources. Both have significant implications for student learning and satisfaction. An abundance of 'Do It Yourself'' Webcast, VoIP and Podcast Web sites offer advice to enthusiasts, businesses, community groups and educators. However, close examination of a sample revealed a lack of due emphasis on fundamental production skills, whilst the significance of using quality equipment is frequently understated. Raising awareness of such issues is important amid increasing use of convergent VoIP and audio-enhanced Web-based instruction. Moreover, previous studies have identified poor quality audio as a factor that contributes to miscommunication and disruption of learning.