Best Tools for Recording, Editing, & Publish Student Podcasts

My name is Sonu, and today, we’ll be exploring the best platforms for recording, editing, and publishing your student podcasts.

Not only are we going to look at various platform options, but I’ll also be discussing the benefits and key considerations for each.

Please note, the purpose of this article is to provide you with an overview of the tools available, not an in-depth tutorial on how to use them.

So, let’s get started by diving into the top audio recording platforms for student podcasting.

Recording Audio Platforms

When selecting a platform for your students to record with, there are several factors you’ll want to consider:

Age group: What age group are you working with?

Recording length: How long will your recordings be?

Account setup: Do you want to deal with setting up accounts?

Editing: Will your students be editing their podcasts? If so, do you want them to record and edit in the same location?

Location: Is everyone on the podcast in the same location, or do you need to interview off-site guests?

With those considerations in mind, here are eight options for recording. All of these platforms are free or have a free tier.

1. Vocaroo

Vocaroo is a simple and user-friendly platform that doesn’t require an account.

All you need to do is click the microphone button to start recording. You can pause, stop, and then save your recording by clicking the share and save button.

Vocaroo gives you the option to download your file as an MP3, and it also offers easy sharing features like links or QR codes.

This platform is fantastic for younger learners, as it automatically adjusts volume and minimizes background noise by default.

2. Cloud Audio Recorder

Cloud Audio Recorder, like Vocaroo, doesn’t require an account and allows you to pause during recordings.

One feature I love is that you can download the file as an MP3 or save it directly to your Google Drive.

However, there are no editing capabilities, making this a great option for short projects or younger students where re-recording is easier than editing.

3. 123Apps

Similar to Vocaroo and Cloud Audio Recorder, 123Apps allows you to record with a simple click.

However, it offers basic editing features like trimming the beginning or end of an audio file. Once saved, the audio file can be adjusted for volume, speed, and pitch.

4. Padlet

Padlet requires an account, but it allows students to record and publish in the same location.

Teachers need an account to set up the page for students to post their recordings.

There are no editing features, and the maximum recording time is 15 minutes. This platform is ideal for micro-podcasting or quick student reflections.

You begin by clicking the plus button, then the “more” icon, followed by “audio recorder.” After recording, you can pause and either discard or save your recording.

A feature I really like is that you can require moderator approval before anything is posted.

5. Spotify for Podcasters (formerly Anchor.fm)

Spotify for Podcasters allows you to record, edit, and publish all in the same location. It includes an easy-to-use episode builder and basic editing features like splitting clips and deleting mistakes.

However, only students aged 13 and older can use this platform due to compliance with COPPA regulations.

One limitation is that you can only capture 30 minutes of audio at a time through the web browser, but you can import longer files.

6. Soundtrap

Soundtrap is one of the most robust options, allowing your students to record and edit in the same location.

It even lets you interview outside guests. While it offers a free level, there are limited features unless you pay for an EDU account.

One of the standout features is the ability to collaborate on group projects, making it perfect for teamwork.

However, its extensive features might be overwhelming for simple projects.

7. Zoom and Google Meet

If you need to interview a guest remotely but aren’t using Soundtrap, I recommend Zoom or Google Meet.

Both platforms require accounts, but they’re excellent for remote recording sessions.

8. Adobe Podcast

Although this platform is still in beta testing, I’m excited about its potential. Adobe Podcast AI auto-adjusts volume, removes background noise, and allows you to edit podcasts using the words of the transcript instead of the audio track itself.

It’s incredibly accessible, and I believe it will soon be one of the top choices for classroom podcasting.

It will be available through Adobe Express, which is free for both teachers and students.

Recommendations for Recording Platforms

• Best for Younger Students: Vocaroo
• Best All-in-One: Adobe Podcast
• Most Comprehensive: Soundtrap

If I had to pick one platform to use with my former 7th-grade class tomorrow, I’d absolutely choose Adobe Podcast.

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Editing Platforms

Most of the recording platforms mentioned don’t have built-in editing features.

If you need a separate tool for editing, consider the following platforms:

1. Audacity

Audacity is free, open-source software that offers advanced editing features like noise reduction and multi-track editing.

However, it can only be used on Mac or PC, and it has a steep learning curve. While it’s a popular option, it might not be the most user-friendly for students.

2. GarageBand

GarageBand has a more user-friendly interface and allows multi-track mixing, making it great for students who want to fade sounds in and out. However, it’s only available on Apple devices.

3. Spotify for Podcasters

Spotify for Podcasters offers basic editing features like splitting clips and deleting sections.

Chromebook users can use this platform, and it also allows you to add background music and transition sounds.

4. Soundtrap

Soundtrap is the best web-based editing tool for students. It’s user-friendly and offers collaborative features, making it ideal for group projects.

Additionally, it integrates with Google Classroom, allowing you to create project templates and assignments. It even has a lesson plan library with built-in examples.

5. Adobe Podcast

Once Adobe Podcast is fully launched, I believe it will become my go-to recommendation for editing due to its ability to edit from a transcript. Soundtrap also offers transcript editing, but the free version limits how much content you can edit.

Recommendations for Editing Platforms

• Best for Advanced Editing: Audacity
• Best for Apple Users: GarageBand
• Best for All Ages: Adobe Podcast (once launched)

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Publishing Platforms

Once your students have recorded and edited their podcasts, it’s time to publish. Here are some options for publishing student podcasts:

1. Google Sites

Google Sites allows you to upload audio files, add cover art, and include show notes. It can be shared publicly or privately within a class. The downside is that it takes time to set up the site template.

2. Padlet

Padlet is an excellent collaborative space for publishing podcasts. Listeners can leave feedback and give reactions. However, the free version limits you to three boards at a time.

3. Google Slides

Google Slides is a simple, lower-tech option for sharing podcasts. You can include audio files, cover art, and show notes. It’s easy to share with others, but it also requires some upfront setup.

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Conclusion:

This wraps up my overview of the top platforms for recording, editing, and publishing student podcasts. I hope this guide helps you decide which tools are right for your classroom.

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