Alternatives to VoiceThread
Clarkson’s subscription to VoiceThread will end January 1, 2025. This means all access to VoiceThread services and any VoiceThread files through a clarkson.edu account will no longer be available starting January 1, 2025; including for administrators, teachers and students. No exemptions. The decision to not renew is driven by low adoption of the VoiceThread service and re-prioritizing financial resources.
The following is information individuals can use to ensure a smooth transition:
Export Your Voicethreads: Prior to December 20, 2024, teachers and students can export their own VoiceThread files. Details on how to export your own files here.
- Accounts Removed: On December 20, 2024, all accounts will be removed from Clarkson’s VoiceThread account. This will preserve users' content and allow users to continue to access their accounts if they wish. The accounts will be downgraded to Free and will not have access to any of the institutional account’s resources. This step is recommended by VoiceThread.
- Schedule a consultation with the Teaching and Learning Corner team for help in devising a customized plan for using alternate tools that support your instructional goals. Options are available and listed below, however, you may be interested in purchasing a Higher Ed Single Instructor License for your class(es).
Alternates for Online Video/Audio collaboration
Schedule a consultation with the Teaching and Learning Corner (TLC) team for help in devising a customized plan for using alternate tools that support your instructional goals HelpDesk 315-268-HELP (x4357) or helpdesk@clarkson.edu. See alternate options below.
OIT Supported
These tools are included as enterprise versions and are 'free' to use for Clarkson faculty, staff and students.
Moodle Forums Recording
Pro: The Forums tool has various tools such as the advanced editor which allows for media to be added, and places to upload media and share files, plus the ability for students to subscribe.
Cons: PPT must be attached, not inserted. Comments/Replies are not directly on the media.
More: Standard Forum for General Use
Echo360 Course Discussion/Q &A
Pros: Integrated into Moodle for both faculty and students, browser or desktop, mobile app available
Cons:
More: Echo Slides and Presentations, Students submit an Echo360 recording assignment in Moodle,
Google Slides
Pros: feedback/dialogue on individual slides, give comment access, viewers annotate with text based comments
Cons:
GoogleVid
Pros:
Cons:
Moodle Board Tool
Pros:
Cons:
Cloud Tools
These tools are free to use or have free limited versions.
Padlet
Pros: Using Padlet as a Video Discussion
Cons: The free version limits use to 3 Padlets but the Education cost for 2 teachers is reasonable. Pricing
More: Padlet Help
Vimeo
Pros:
Cons:
Prezi
Pros:
Cons:
Not Free-Negotiable
Pricing is negotiable with perhaps a free semester.
Harmonize
Pros: integrates with Moodle, very robust
Cons: Pricing
Perusall
Pros: Integrates with Moodle, collaboration and critical thinking
Cons: Pricing (is murky)
Articles of Interest
*Engaging Students Through Asynchronous Video-Based Discussions in Online Courses
*Prezi, Slideshare or VoiceThread-Which is best?