Today we will begin recording the Feeder 2.2 podcasts that you scripted last week. PC users will want to begin by downloading and installing the Audacity recording software:
Mac users will have an easier time with GarageBand, which is probably already installed on your computer. If you don't have GarageBand, there is a version of Audacity available for Mac as well.
Once you have the software up and running, you may want to begin by recording your own voice and using some of the program's effects to manipulate the sound wave by cutting and pasting, overdubbing, or transforming it through effects. As we talked about during our discussion of the RadioLab podcast, these bells and whistles can be useful tools for orienting your listener, but remember that you want your listeners to pay attention to WHAT is being said, not HOW you're saying it.
As you get going, you may find yourself in need of sound effects and/or background music. As we discussed in class, you should be sure to obey the rules about intellectual property that we talked about. The following web sites provide free, legal samples that you can use in your podcast (note: some may require registration in order for you to download):
Once you download these songs to your computer, you can drag them directly into GarageBand or add them into your Audacity project by going to File > Import > Audio. Once the sound is in your project you can use the program's tools to move it around and manipulate it just like you did with your voice.
We'll spend the entirety of today's class working on your podcasts, and you can rely on me and your group members for help realizing the ideas you spelled out in your scripts. In addition, during Thursday's optional class I will be available to help you troubleshoot any problems you run into. You can also search the web for general tutorials on podcasting or specific tutorials about making a particular sound or effect.
You will need to bring a draft of your Feeder 2.2 podcast (i.e. something for your workshop partner to listen to) to class on Tuesday, November 9. NOTE: Please bring a set of headphones to EVERY class meeting from now on; you will need these in order to workshop your podcasts.
Example Podcasts
I know some of you were having trouble getting started, so it might be helpful to listen to what past students have done. Here are a few links:
These podcasts aren't perfect by any means, but they might help you get started and realize what's possible with the tools you have at your disposal. One thing I will say is that I think most of these could have been more ambitious in the ways the authors used effects to signal transitions; so these aren't the target, they're a jumping off point. I want you to wow me!
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