Equipment

=Equipment=

Basically, you don't need anything to __participate__ in a VoiceThread except a computer with Internet access. Your students can use their keyboard to key in text if they do not have a microphone or webcam. There is even an option to call in using a cell phone; however, that option limits the amount of time considerably.

To __create__ a VoiceThread, you will need media to make up your slides." Teachers will probably want to add voice and video so here are a few options for you.

[[image:C01U-web.jpg width="94" height="240" align="right"]]
Samson C01U USB Condenser Microphone Cost: approximately $100 Connects to USB port on your computer Very easy to use

Blue Snowball USB Cost: approximately $100 Connects to USB port on your computer Very easy to use Comes in several colors

__USB Headphones with Microphone__

Cost: variable, starting at $20 Very good low-cost option Easy to use Versatile since it is easy to transport

Web Cam
A web cam comes standard on most laptops now but if you have a desktop or an older laptop, you can purchase a web cam for around $35 at your local retail or office supply store. The more money you spend, the higher the video will be - as a general rule. We have found the lower priced web cam ($35) is fine.

Video Cameras (for creating media)
//Flip Mino HD// Very easy to use. Has a usb arm that "flips" out when you want to transfer video from camera to computer. Will hold about 1 hour of video. Battery charges using the usb arm.

//Kodak Zi8// Also, very easy to use. Has the USB arm that flips out. Will hold additional memory using a standard SD card.