Don't wait until the last minute to get started with your audio project. Planning and preparation are crucial. One of the best ways to prepare is to listen to examples of podcasts, radio shows, etc.
Start by thinking about your audience. Who are they? What do you want them to experience, know, or do because of your project? How will you grab and hold their attention?
Review any project instructions and goals as you draft your message. If you're presenting a monologue, write a script and practice your delivery. If you're holding a conversation or an interview, plan your questions or topics to cover.
Keep your audience in mind. What do they already know, and what will you need to help them understand?
Practice recording early so that you learn to make the best use of the recording equipment you have. External microphones or headphones with built-in microphones will sound better than a laptop microphone. Phones can work well, too, as long as they are close enough to the person speaking. Students and faculty can borrow a range of equipment from Academic Computing Technology.
Notice any pops or clicks that happen when you start and stop your recording. You may need to pause before and after speaking so that you can edit out those distracting sounds.
Consider your environment for recording. Are you recording sounds at a specific location, or are you looking for a quiet space with no ambient noise? Typically, a good recording should sound like you’re in the same room as the listener.
If you're combining recordings by more than one group member, try to record with similar equipment and conditions so that the recording quality is consistent. Consistent volume and clarity will help to cut down on the amount of editing you need to do.
Add music and sound effects to set the tone of your presentation. You can find free audio resources to use on the Free-to-Use Images and Clips page.
Make note of any technical requirements for your project, such as preferred file type and maximum file size.
How will you share your recording with the audience? Are you uploading it to your Canvas course, or will you need to host the recording on a site like Soundcloud or a webpage of your own?
This link opens in a new window This link opens in a new window