The Best iPhone App You Didn’t Know About
When I found out about this app, my jaw dropped. It is the answer to so much classroom frustration that surrounds giving directions and collecting data. The best part is that it is so easy to use and will transform your station rotation time.
Drumroll please…
Introducing: Chirbit
What is a Chirbit? In short, Chirbit is audio sharing for everyone. This app allows the user to record audio and then share it in multiple ways. The audio files are hosted on the Chirbit website! This is seriously revolutionary. If you’re like me and you’ve been using QR codes for years and always wished there was a way to record audio easily, then pick up your jaw because this is the way.
Common Questions
1. How much audio can I record? The free account allows for 2GB per Chirbit, which is about 2 minutes. Plenty of time to record directions or record a student response. The paid account allows for 120MB which could be like 2 hours long.
2. What sharing options does Chirbit include? The audio file can be embedded anywhere that allows HTML5 (most websites). You can also share via social media (all of the most popular types). My favorite option is to share via QR code.
3. What are the recording options? You can record directly from your browser using a webcam or microphone. This includes phone or tablet recordings.
4. What about student data safety? You can set a Chirbit to be behind a password. This is really useful for when a student records an answer or response and wants to share it with the teacher.
5. Is it only available for iOS? Yes, sadly. If I find an Android equivalent I will let you know!
Teaching Tips and Suggestions
1. Use a QR code at a station to share audio instructions for what students are to complete. Imagine the time this will save you! There is nothing worse than getting everyone set up for station time and then being interrupted while you’re trying to work with a small group because someone didn’t hear the instructions. Simply record the audio, download the QR code, print it, and place it at the station along with a device that can scan and play the message. Sure, it takes a bit of time to set this up, but it will decrease the hassle of students being off task during this time.
2. Embed a Chirbit on your class website to give instructions for students and/or parents. It is really quick and easy to record audio, and what parent wouldn’t love to hear your voice more often? Share quick updates, events, etc. that they can access from anywhere. HTML5 is awesome because it doesn’t require a flash browser.
3. If you have previously recorded audio on your mobile device or laptop, upload it into Chirbit. They accept nearly any audio file type. This feature is great for sharing student work that was previously recorded. Send home a QR code of each student reading a passage or retelling a story so that their parents can listen to their progress (or the reading interventionist so you can share data). And of course this can be used in any subject area, not just reading.
So What Are You Waiting For?
Download the Chirbit App and save yourself so much time this school year!
I’d love to hear how you end up using this app. Let me know in the comments, or come join my Facebook Group, the Technology Teacher Tribe and share with all of us.
