Recording an mp3 audio file

The example above demonstrates an audio narration that was recorded on a smart phone and added to this page. It was recorded with a Samsung Galaxy smart phone but you could use an iPhone, iPad or any smart phone or tablet. There are plenty of free voice recording apps in the App Store (e.g. MP3 Recorder Free) and Google Play Store (e.g. Hi-Q MP3 Recorder) - look for one that records in mp3 format. When you're happy with your recording, copy or transfer it to your computer.

You could also use a laptop or desktop computer to record an mp3 audio, using vocaroo.com - a website that allows you to record your audio then download it to your computer in mp3 format. If you're using a desktop computer you'll need a microphone or headset but most laptops have a microphone embedded in them.

Insert the audio into a page

Once you have created a page and copied your mp3 file from your mobile device to your computer, drag the "Embedded Media" widget on to the page into the position you want the audio player to display.

Next, upload your audio file.

Note that after saving it, you won't be able to see it in edit mode, but if you click the "Display Page" tab you should now be able to see it and play back your narration.

Inserting a Voki talking avatar Voki avatars are a fun alternative to inserting a plain old mp3 into your page. Using the Voki website you can create your own personalised avatar that will deliver your narration, like in the example to the right - click the play button to listen. The audio in this example was recorded on a phone then uploaded to Voki. Voki processes the recording and syncs it with your avatar. To use Voki you'll need to create a free account. It's simple enough to use - just create your avatar, upload your recording, then publish!

Creating an avatar

Once you've created your free Voki account, you're ready to start building your avatar. There are 5 things to do in this process:

1. choose your character, their clothes and accessories.
2. upload your audio file (click the folder icon), or record one with a microphone.
3. give your character a background to stand in front of.
4. choose the colour of the player.
5. Publish!

In the publishing step, select the standard Voki link to use, then select and copy the URL displayed.

Inserting your avatar into your page

Once you have created your ePortfolio page, go to the "External content" tab and drag the "External media" widget onto your page.

Paste the Voki link into the URL box.

Note that after saving it, you won't be able to see it in edit mode, but if you click the "Display Page" tab you should now be able to see and play your avatar.