Introduction
VoiceThread is a multimedia platform that enables instructors to implement asynchronous interactions between students and instructor. This article will walk through how to create a Comment Assignment in which students are required to create comments in response to an instructor VoiceThread presentation.
Access VoiceThread in Canvas
To access VoiceThread, the first step is to create a new assignment.
In the submission type drop down menu, choose External tool.
Choosing the External Tool submission type activates the integration between VoiceThread and your Canvas course. Click Find in the option box.
When you click the blue VoiceThread link, you create the connection between VoiceThread and your Canvas course and enable grade passback for the assignment you are about to set up.
Create the assignment in VoiceThread
Once you've chosen VoiceThread from the list of external tools in Canvas, you are taken to the VoiceThread activity wizard.
The first choice is the kind of activity you would like to configure. Choose "Assignment Builder".
In the Assignment Builder menu, choose to create a Comment Assignment. Click continue.
Once you've chosen a comment assignment, the VoiceThread assignment builder wizard asks what you would like students to comment on, a VoiceThread you have created or one from a previous assignment.
To enable students to comment on a presentation or video you have created, click Instructor's VoiceThread.
VoiceThread now gives you the option to choose your Instructor's VoiceThread. You may choose a VoiceThread you have already created or you may choose to create a new one.
VoiceThreads can be created in a variety of formats such as video, audio or screen recording.
Set up assignment parameters
Once you have chosen and reviewed your VoiceThread, the next step is to enter the Participation and Playback Requirements of the assignment.
In the participation requirement area, decide how many comments student should leave on your VoiceThread and whether they should also contribute a slide(s).
The next choice is to decide which types of comments are allowed. Webcam comments are a great way to enable social presence in your course community.
After setting the participation requirements, add assignment metadata. The assignment name and assessment information should mirror the settings in Canvas.
Once you have indicated the participation requirements and assignment parameters, click publish.
The VoiceThread assignment will be available when published in Canvas.
VoiceThread assignments can be graded in VoiceThread and the score will be passed back to Canvas. For more info, read this support guide on Grading Assignments in VoiceThread.