Soundtrap is a cloud based podcasting/music production tool that is taking the education arena by storm. There are many great features of Soundtrap in terms of collaboration and anytime, anywhere creation. While this is wonderful news for the music and podcasting world, there are practical applications for Soundtrap in the classroom, including rethinking written expression.
I was inspired by a recent YouTube video by Patrick Donovan, who covers a new feature in Soundtrap, which is the integrated transcript. This feature provides a text-based transcript to podcasts and other voice audio that benefits individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing as required by accessibility guidelines. This got me thinking about learners with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and other written expression challenges and how the use of Soundtrap plus the transcript feature can be used in a holistic manner to support least restrictive environment (LRE), Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and Assistive Technology (AT).
Ways that Soundtrap with Transcription can be used to Support Written Expression:
- Soundtrap’s Transcription feature allows for teachers to offer options, choice, and flexibility in how written expression occurs in their classroom.
- Using Soundtrap and the Transcription feature with learners with disabilities, (i.e. dyslexia, dysgraphia,) helps to provide strategies and supports in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) as a Tier 1 intervention.
- Facilitates written expression by allowing learners to record their thinking without worrying about the text being correct. The option to edit the transcript helps learners in the editing process.
- Helps to remove barriers to written expression (ie handwriting, keyboarding, spelling).
The Process of Written Expression With Soundtrap
Writing with voice is not too different than writing with a keyboard or writing implement. Educators cannot simply place a device with Soundtrap open and tell their learners to “go for it”. As with any tool, there has to be teaching on why and how the tool is to be used. In terms of thinking about writing with Soundtrap and transcription, there is a process that needs to be taught. Inspired by Kelley Fonner’s writing with voice graphic, here are the steps to help learners use Soundtrap and the integrated transcript:
- Think about what you’ll write
- Plan what you’ll write
- Record what you want to say
- Read Transcript
- Check
- Edit
Rethinking written expression with Soundtrap and their integrated transcript feature can help your learners feel successful and empowered as writers. Posting an info-graphic like the one below can help support learners recall the process as they build proficiency. Setting up a writing studio in the classroom with a device/equipment for writing with Soundtrap as a natural part of the learning environment offers writers the option, choice, and flexibility to express their knowledge in the way that best makes sense for them.
