We’ve spent some time in previous posts talking about online discussion forums and their use as an active learning tool. In this week’s post, we’re going to focus on a specific tool that you can use to add an additional level of interactivity to your online discussions.

VoiceThread is a cloud-based application that is accessible via computer or mobile device. VoiceThread allows users to participate in an online class discussion via multiple options such as submitting comments or replies by microphone, webcam, text, phone, or audio-file upload. 

Several educators, including Michelle Pacansky-Brock,  are finding VoiceThread to be a valuable resource to utilize in facilitating online discussions. Michelle has received a Sloan-C Excellence in Online Teaching Award and was honored with a Sloan-C Effective Practice Award for her use of VoiceThread to enhance online community and increase social presence. To learn more about how she has used VoiceThread in her classes visit the VoiceThread blog at http://blog.voicethread.com/webinars-all/.