Image 1. Video created using Voki.com on November 15, 2009. Original sound recorded on Garageband.
Voki
http://www.voki.com
The Web 2.0 tool that I want to elaborate on is Voki.com. The site is free and it allows you to create an avatar using specific details for features, background, etc. and also includes text to speech. You can download your voice, record or select a unique voice to read your lines. The interesting part of the tool is the fact that the lips move synchronized to your words and it looks realistic. We have used an avatar program with our webcams in class and the students create mini movies and photo sessions with the full or partial avatar features. They are pre-made and they have to select the one they want. There are many to choose from but on Voki, they get to create their talking avatar. They can alter the color of their skin, eyes, lips, hair, shape of their face, hairstyle, and background to match the seasons or their personality. I can see where my students would want to work on this which would promote their technology skills, as well as writing and inter and intrapersonal skills too.
Taking Voki a step further, if you click on play, http://www.voki.com/play.php, you come to an application gallery. There are other facets of the tool listed here, and the variations are very interesting. You can enter into a classical movie or become a Vulcan. It is quite interesting when you add your facial features to the character. One of the applications is “Baby Maker,” where you can add two photos and it supposedly gives you a visual of what your baby will look like. Again, great site to get kids involved with digital photography, avatars, writing, and uploading and downloading to different sites and formats. Check it out! King Kong awaits!
That was neat. I like that Chris. It could be used to send students a message when you are not there or to enhance an assignment. I plan on checking that out and using it.
ReplyDeleteChris, I love the cool sites you've shared. Your VOKI post is great. Face-in-the-hole is like the Elf Yourself website. I felt bad when the holidays were over and the elves were gone. Thanks for sharing with me, because your helping teachers aren't lucky enough to be in your Master's in Tech. program!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the post Susan. As one of my critical friends, I am glad you can share in learning about all these great tools! They sure are really cool!!!
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