VoiceThread: Getting Started

VoiceThread is a fun, interactive alternative to text-based online discussions. VoiceThread makes a great tool for class introductions, debate, dialogue and student presentations. Join the conversation!

How do I access VoiceThread? 

All University of St. Thomas faculty and students already have a VoiceThread account. The easiest way to access VoiceThread is through One.StThomas.edu. 

1. Log in to OneStThomas
2. Open Apps and Tools menu
3. Scroll through the alphabetical list to find VoiceThread
4. You will be taken to your VoiceThread Home page.  If you don't have any VoiceThreads, you will be invited to create one there. 

Instructors may also integrate VoiceThread into their Canvas course site and provide a link to an individual VocieThread, or a VoiceThread assignment. 

What does a VoiceThread look like?

Central to all VoiceThreads is a content feature in the middle. This can be a slide, an image, a video, or a document (PDF, DOCX, PPTX). Individual comments are indicated by the people icons around the side. Important tools and tips are pointed out below:

How do I create and use VoiceThread?

• Video tutorial: Creating a VoiceThread
• Video tutorial: Commenting on a VoiceThread
• Video tutorial: Sharing your VoiceThread

How do I comment on a VoiceThread?

Making comments is easy. Simply move your mouse over the plus sign on the bottom-center of the slide and choose the comment type you want:

Comment by way of Text, Voice, Video, or Upload more content. You can even phone call your Comment in. You can reply to others with your Comments, send a Private Reply, and even doodle on the media in the middle.  It's a great way to engage in interactive presentations!

Best Practices for Using VoiceThread

1. Use a headset with microphone for best audio recording.
2. Position yourself up close and centered in the video so others can see your face.
3. Drag the bottom right corner of the speaker’s window to enlarge it.
4. Add a photo of yourself to your profile so others see who is commenting.
5. Click the Menu button to create a VT, or navigate to your VT Home or Subscribe to a VT.

For Faculty: How to setup VoiceThread in a Canvas course

1. Open your course site in Canvas
2. Go to Modules and click the + sign on the right side of the screen.
3. Select External Tool from the drop-down list
4. Scroll down the list to find VoiceThread and click to Add it. Optional: you can rename "VoiceThread" to something more unique.
5. Back in the Modules view, click on the VoiceThread item just made.
6. On the next screen, select one of the blue buttons for the type of VoiceThread set up you want to establish. Click the “i” for more information about each type.
7. After step #6, you will see that view of VoiceThread in Canvas.
8. Then, when students click on the link you just established, they will be taken to that view of VoiceThread in your course.

How Can I Learn More and Get Help with VoiceThread? 

There are many resources to help get you started and become proficient with VoiceThread. Check out these great resources! 

- The VoiceThread YouTube channel is a wonderful place to start: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXggZ2yUPudu9EKx5ZtrdAw

- Basic VoiceThread Tutorials: https://voicethread.com/myvoice/browse/threadbox/76

- Instructor Guide for VoiceThread in Canvas: https://voicethread.com/howto-categories/instructors/

- Student Guide for VoiceThread in Canvas: https://voicethread.com/howto-categories/students/

- Digital Library: http://voicethread.com/about/library/

- Training workshops (browse through the categories on the right for recordings of past sessions): https://voicethread.com/workshops

AND, Help can be found by clicking the Help icon on the right side of your VoiceThread Home.

To find out how you can use VoiceThread in your class, schedule a consultation through the Booking app on STELAR's website.