So you got an iPod for Christmas, but how do you enjoy your favorite podcasts (The TechTeacher Podcast) during your long commute to work? Simple, get the Griffin RoadTrip FM Transmitter and Car Charger. Simply pop your iPod into this slick device, and transmit your music, audio books, or podcast to any FM frequency from 88.1 to 107.9. On top of that, it charges your iPod while you drive. For more information about this great stocking stuffer, [Click Here]

So your loved one has been pestering you for an MP3 player, but you just don't know which one to buy. I always suggest the iPod...and why not, they basically own the MP3 market, plus iTunes is so easy to use. The iPod that I really like is the new 8gig iPod Nano which lists for about $197.00. Not only is it a stylish MP3 player, but it is also a great little video player for those who don't want to shell out $250 to $350 for the larger video iPods. It is both Mac and PC compatible and will a perfect addition under your Christmas tree.

For more information or to order a iPod, [Click here]

Have you started your Christmas shooping yet? If not, or if you are having a difficult time finding that perfect gift, here is a suggestion. Digital photo frames are becoming more and more popular, because they are becoming more affordable. Using LCD technology, digital photo frames can be a great and exciting way to share those digital memories that maybe never make it off of your computer. Prices range form $59 to $299 depending on size and features. I recently purchased the Photoblitz 5.6" frame from TigerDirect for $69.00 and received a 1 gig SD card to go with it.

For more information about digital photo frames, visit TigerDirect:
[Click here]

We all are experts at something...right? If not, have I got the site for you. Whether it is how to make traditional eggnog, use GarageBand, or create a podcast, ExpertVillage.com is the place to go. Expert Village is a large repository of how-to videos and articles featuring advice from recognized and credible experts in their fields. With over 53,000 videos, and almost 4,000 experts; you are sure to find something that interests you. Check it out and let me know what you think.

www.expertvillage.com

One thing that I hear all of the time from educators is...where can I download free music loops or sound effects legally. Finally, I have a great answer and I think you will agree.

SoundSnap.com is a huge database containing public domain loops, sound effects and audio clips. All of the sounds on this site have been tagged and categorized for easy searching. On top of that, listeners can preview the sounds using a built in player and then if they like it, the sounds can downloaded them right away in multiple formats (MP3, AIFF, and WAV).

Now just like most sites that allow public content to be uploaded with very few restrictions; I would caution schools to let students search the site for sounds because there may be some inappropriate content there. My suggestion would be for the teacher to search and download loops and sounds and then let students go from there.

www.soundsnap.com

Creating presentations and sharing them has just gotten easier. On top of that, students now have a way to create and share their projects from any location. The tool that makes this all happen is thumbstack.com. Thumbstack is a browser based presentation builder and editor. Being web based, means that presentation can be created form any computer and shared with anyone and anywhere. Thumstack works with any brower and again, because it is web based, works with any operating system. Another great feature about Thumbstack is that it works just like the popular presentation tools, but without the price. It offers a drag and drop feature, transitions, actions, sounds and videos, and a drawing tool. Finally, with Thumbstacks remote meeting service, your presentation can be shared in real-time over the web. The clean and simple interface will make this tool appropriate for a wide range of users. Don't take my word for it, try it yourself today!
www.thumbstack.com

 

 

Skype truly is a tool that I can't do without. I use it for most of my long distance calls, live chats, and plan on using it for round table podcast or podcast interviews. With that in mind, I really needed a simple but clean tool to record these sessions for podcast and found such a tool...Pamlea.

Now Pamela is a Skype certified add-on toolbox which offers a wide range of functions to enhance your Skype experience. But the greatest feature is a function not available in Skype which is the ability to record a Skype call as a MP3. This is perfect for recording those interview or round-table podcasts. On top of that, Pamlea also offers a local answering machine, birthday reminder, Skype contact personalization and some other features, just visit their web site for all details.

Now Pamela Standard is available as 30-day trial version. The license cost is one time only and includes life long free updates and free support. The license is not tied to your Skype name. One time license cost: $12.95.

http://www.pamela-systems.com

Features:
- MP3 Call Recording
- Answering Machine
- VideoMail
- Mega Emotion Sounds
- Skype Call Transfer
- Rich Mood Editor
- Auto Chat Reply
- Birthday Reminders
- Skype Status Change
- Email Forwarding
- Contact Personalization
- Skype Blogging
- Skype Podcasting
Requirements:
- Windows 2000/XP/Vista (32 or 64-bit)
- Skype 3.0 or higher