The use of 'pod casts' and audio/voice tools is an exciting addition to the tools teachers have at their disposal to engage and inform clients. Many of Generation 'Y' seem to always have their mp3 players on and their earphones plugged in - why not explore whether this is a way to reach these clients.

What is 'pod casting'?
The Wikipedia definition is found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Podcast The term can also refer to the use of audio files that are downloaded and listened to on any mp3 player (not just an i-pod!) or computer.

Recording audio
Sound Recorder is a free program that comes pre-loaded with Windows. It can (generally) be accessed by going to Start - All programs - Accessories - Entertainment and then clicking on 'Sound Recorder'. It has simple controls and will save the audio file in .wav format, which can be used in most other programs such as Movie Maker and PowerPoint.

Audacity is free audio recording software. It can be downloaded from http://sourceforge.net/projects/audacity/
The program has more options than the 'Sound Recorder' and can also save files as mp3. Great online tutorial on how to use Audacity: http://www.how-to-podcast-tutorial.com/17-audacity-tutorial.htm

A .pdf manual on how to use some of the features of Audacity is available on the BRIT Intranet at http://britnet/Teaching/Elearning/PodcastingandAudio/tabid/219/Default.aspx?PageContentID=62