Evaluation of Communication Tool "Soundtrap"

Soundtrap

What is Soundtrap?

Soundtrap is a digital audio workstation (DAW) accessible on any device.  It is a collaborative tool that learners use to create music and podcast while developing their creativity and communication skills. The online community can be as small or as global as you would like. It is customizable to the needs of the learner.

How could Soundtrap be used in the classroom?

Soundtrap could be used to easily by teachers to create flipped classrooms as it integrates with multiple learner management systems. Learners could use Soundtrap to collaborate on the creation of podcasts to share their learning. They can also use it to share their podcasts with a global audience. I love the videocalls option that is available which virtually erases the miles between the learners.

Rubric:

EDU 568 Communication Tool Rubric Group 4
Characteristics	4	3	2	1	Score
Purpose	I can communicate with a global audience.	I can communicate with a select audience.	I can give information to a global audience but can not receive feedback.	I can give information to a select audience.	4
Usability and Navigation	I can easily navigate the tool the tool is very intuitive.	With a little practice the tool is easy to navigate.	The tool can be used and navigated with assistance.	Very hard to use even with practice.	4
Appropriateness	The communication tool is appropriate for all 5 age levels included: Early Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School and Adult Learners	The communication tool is appropriate for 4 of the age levels included: Early Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School and Adult Learners	The communication tool is appropriate for 3of the age levels included: Early Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School and Adult Learners	The communication tool is appropriate for 1-2 of the age levels included: Early Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School and Adult Learners	4
Help/Support	Support is readily available to guide you through using the tool.	Support can be found if searched for, but is not instantaneous.	Support is limited.	There is no support.	4
Information Sharing	The tool allows users to link to other sites such as Facebook, Twitter & Blogs and compresses URLs into shortened links (bitly).	The tool allows users to link to other sites such as Facebook, Twitter & Blogs.	The tool only allows limited links to other sites.	The tool does not allow linking to other sites.	2
Safety/Monitoring	Allows monitoring & editing by teacher/gatekeeper.	Allows teacher monitoring but limited editing.	Allows teacher monitoring but no editing capabilities.	No ability for teacher to monitor or edit.	4
Cost	Unlimited free accounts for students, staff & parents. Unlimited cloud storage.	Some options are free or cost is minimal.	Minimal fee for all accounts.	Annual fee.	2
Design	The communication tool meets all of the criteria listed: It is neat and organized, simple and not overstuffed,the background does not interfere with the text, and the layout is visually appealing.	The communication tool meets 3 of the criteria listed: It is neat and organized, simple and not overstuffed,the background does not interfere with the text, and the layout is visually appealing.	The communication tool meets 2 of the criteria listed: It is neat and organized, simple and not overstuffed,the background does not interfere with the text, and the layout is visually appealing..	The communication tool meets 1 or none of the criteria listed: It is neat and organized, simple and not overstuffed,the background does not interfere with the text, and the layout is visually appealing.	4
Accessibility	I can access the tool from any device, does not require an application, and fast instant notification of communication.	I can access the tool from most common devices, may require an application to be downloaded and receive notifications if the application is open.	I can access the tool from only one kind of device, application is required to be downloaded, and only can receive notifications if application is open and refreshed.	I can access the tool form only one kind of device and it is glitchy. It requires an application to be downloaded, no notifications or inconsistent.	4
				Total: 30

In conclusion I will be using Soundtrap with my learners this year! The cost of use is minimal for all that it does. I have been unable to find another tool that is as easy to use for my young learners as Soundtrap.