This week is focused on exploring audio storytelling and engaging in sound editing. I began by installing Audacity and trying out its features. Initially, it seemed a bit daunting so many buttons, numerous effects but after some practice and mistakes, I learned how to use it efficiently. Increasing and decreasing sounds, trimming and layering of music pieces, also using different effects became simple with more practice. Editing sound needs time but when I found the rhythm, it turned to be enjoyable indeed. Establishing my account on SoundCloud was a critical move; it simplified sharing my creations without consuming server storage space.

More than just acquiring the technical knowledge, I devoted time pondering how sound influences a story. Viewing Jad Abumrad’s videos made me understand how radio fosters closeness and connection; this became apparent when I listened to “Moon Graffiti.” The manner in which audio effects generated tension and environment was astonishing. This greatly aided my process of creating a bumper for ds106 radio – my prime emphasis was on making something brief yet powerful. I also put effort in doing a sound effect story, narrating an entire scene using only overlaying audio. This was entertainingly challenging. As the finishing step, I created some concepts for the upcoming Tech-Noir radio project and thought about how my course character Jack Cross can blend within varied storylines. All things considered, this week made me think over sounds and their value in narration, and I’m thrilled to continue improving these skills.

For this assignment, we were tasked with creating a relaxing, loop-able sound. I chose a simple yet universally soothing sound rain something I personally use to unwind. Using FreeSound, I found a rain recording that matched the calming vibe I was aiming for. Then, in Audacity, I adjusted the volume and fine tuned the audio to achieve the perfect balance. Once I was satisfied with the final result, I uploaded it to SoundCloud, pairing it with a tranquil image of a raindrop to visually enhance the experience. Overall, I found this assignment both enjoyable and surprisingly easy to complete.

For this assignment we had to do something interesting and make an entirely fictional breaking news story with help of AI. It was a more bizarre assignment that usual so I thought it would be fun to do. The goal was to invent a plot which appears realistically enough but also is strange in a humorous manner. After some contemplation, I stumbled upon this treasure: a neighborhood cat becoming the mayor of a tiny town and announcing war against dogs. It was such an unusual idea that I realized it would be incredibly funny.

Creating the script was very enjoyable. I needed to maintain a professional tone so it appears like an actual news report, yet simultaneously make certain that the narrative is evidently silly. My aim was for listeners to question, “Is this genuine?” but also promptly understand how preposterous it truly is. After arranging the script, the enjoyable part started–changing it to a real news broadcast with AI.

I employed Colossyan.com for an AI news anchor to recite my script, and the experience of hearing the story animate was incredible. It felt unreal listening to a machine-created voice narrate such a funny tale in a serious manner. Although there wasn’t any tune that made it more refined, this indeed gave it a realistic touch which made it all the more humorous. The entire process was really enjoyable. In the end, I created a funny and somewhat believable news story that I was eager to share!