Audacity is an easy-to-use, open source audio editing software program that is available as a free download. It is available for Macs, Windows, and Linux operating systems. Audacity has a variety of features that can meet the needs of a range of audio recording projects, from very basic short live recording to more elaborate, multi-track projects that combine audio from a various sources. 

What can it do?

• Live recording audio from a microphone or computer 
• Editing of audio recorded within Audacity or created by other programs 
• Multi-track capability for mixing different audio sources
• Multiple filters and tools to improve sound quality and create special effects
• Ability to export to WAV and MP3 files
• Option to change the user interface to display in 35 different languages

Uses in a Course

• Record live responses to prompts during a class session on a computer
• Record narration or introductions to place onto a course web page
• Create audio review materials for student use
• Edit raw interview recordings to create a more polished final product
• Digitized cassette or CD audio course materials for sharing (additional post-production steps may be necessary)
• Combine recordings made by individual students for a group project 

Things to consider before using Audacity

• Audacity project files can’t be uploaded to YouTube, websites etc. They have to be exported into an audio file like WAV or MP3. 
• iTunes and QuickTime Pro or other editing software may be necessary to complete the final steps of your project depending on the desired final product.
• When digitizing other’s work, interviews, or lectures, you have to consider copyright and Institutional Review Board issues, including permission from people who are getting recorded.

Access

• Audacity is available on computers in Taylor 205 and in the Sound Studio.
• Audacity can be downloaded for Mac, Windows, and Linux from their website.

Additional Help

• Student Technology Assistants are available to help at the Digital Media Bar in Andrews Library in the CoRE
• CoRE Consultants can help at the Digital Studio in Andrews Library
• Educational Technology can provide instruction and support in Audacity
• Hoonuit has online training for Audacity
  
• Documentation on Audacity can be found on Wooster’s wiki
• Audacity Editing 101 (YouTube)
• Audacity Basics: Recording, Editing, Mixing (YouTube)