Adobe+Audition

=**Citation and General Information**=
 * Author and Publisher: Adobe Systems Incorporated
 * @http://www.adobe.com/products/audition/
 * Copyright 2009
 * Runs only on Wintel computers
 * Peripherals: Microphones or line-in input
 * This software is recommended for a "sound designer, musician, recording engineer, mastering engineer, or other audiocentric professional [in need of] an all-in-one toolset for professional audio production."
 * Most likely for use in an advanced high school class on audio recording techniques or other technology. Alternatively (or perhaps for an introductory-level class), there is Adobe Soundbooth, a more user-friendly software for those of us with "little or no background in audio [who] need an intuitive, easy-to-use software tool to help [us] quickly accomplish everyday audio tasks."

=**Teacher Support**=
 * Adobe features a stockpile of resources on each of its product websites to accompany their use. These include tutorials, training, and user forums, in which customers can discuss products and compare experiences.
 * Also features on-the-Web troubleshooting and free downloads of "Help" packets (in PDF form for easy download and printing).
 * The 'Design Center,' an online community devoted solely to Audition, can help users "gain inspiration and instruction" by honing their skills with the software.

=**Instructional Content**=
 * Adobe Audition must be use by an instructor who has educational goals of how to integrate it into his or her curriculum; it will not teach a lesson on its own. In order to extract the full educational potential of this software, it should be used in conjunction with books, articles, or other text outlining proper recording and mixing techniques, and to this end, it can provide outstanding opportunities for mature students to work with a professional-level piece of software in a fast-paced environment.
 * A particular instance in which this could be put to great use would be an advanced high school class on audio recording technology (possibly with a strong focus on engineering aspects). The class would progress through a series of more and more complex software and equipment, starting at a baseline with very simple materials and gradually progressing to the level at which they could use Adobe Audition for a final recording project.
 * National Standards that could be addressed:
 * Standard 4: Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines.
 * Standard 6: Listening to, analyzing, and describing music.
 * Standard 8: Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines outside the arts.

=**Instructional Design and Pedagogical Soundness**=
 * Adobe Audition is probably only appropriate for mature and older students because it is quite complex and, without the right preparation or training, could be extremely difficult to use.
 * There is a great deal to understand about this software; it needs to be thoroughly explained and processed in steps in order for students to grasp any finer points about its proper utilization.
 * The software must be used as part of a greater whole of curriculum; without first introducing students to simpler forms of technology and gradually building up their knowledge, Audition will be far too overwhelming.
 * Quality of interaction and execution of tasks is excellent.
 * User has control of movement within the program and can move at whatever rate he or she wishes.
 * Program Structure
 * Simulation
 * Very real-world technology, can be used for tangible projects.
 * Discovery
 * Inquiry into database, trial and error.
 * Sequence of Materials: Good (largely dependent on how it is used)
 * Pace of Instruction: Excellent (also dependent on use)
 * Quality of Interaction: Excellent
 * Motivation for Students: Good

=**Overall Evaluation**= > John Eldridge, 10/18/2009
 * Adobe Audition, upon first glance, would not seem a logical choice to include in a music classroom due to its complex nature and not-so-obvious educational benefits. But it must be used correctly. This software has no place in the elementary or even the middle school classroom; it is a device to be used with older, more mature students who already have a grasp on technology and want to expand their horizons. Before diving into a unit involving Audition, the instructor should first ensure that the students have made significant progress and are ready for a hefty challenge with a serious, professional-quality program like this.
 * ===**Rating -** * * *===