Because The Dream Project is built with Flash, only the MP3 audio format is acceptable. Unfortunately neither Windows nor Mac make it very straight forward to record in MP3 format. The best way to record an MP3 file is to use specialized software, which neither Windows nor Mac make available natively on their systems. It is possible though with a bit of creativity. Here are some suggestions:
SOFTWARE DOWNLOAD
Audacity - an open source audio recording and editing software available for all operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux, etc.).
This is a solid piece of software that is fairly straight forward and easy to use. The great thing about it is that it is free and open source.
http://audacity.sourceforge.net/
WINDOWS
"Developed by the School of Education at the University of Nottingham and as part of the HEFCE funded eChina~UK Project, this learning tool allows students and teachers to record an MP3 audio file directly from a web browser and save it to a local folder." Unfortunately, this online recorder will work only in Internet Explorer. Before you can begin, it will ask for you to download a plugin. The plugin is quick, easy, and safe. Using this utility you can record MP3 files to a folder on your computer. From there you can upload it to The Dream Project.
http://disseminator.nottingham.ac.uk/ar/
MAC
First, record your sound through a microphone in GarageBand. Then use GarageBand to export to iTunes in AIFF format (File -> Export to iTunes). Then from iTunes you can convert it to an MP3. Simply go to the Preferences menu in iTunes and select Importing. Choose "MP3 encoder." Now "Convert Selection to MP3" will be available in the Advanced menu. Now the MP3 is on your computer and you can upload it to The Dream Project. |
