Why do an audio assignment?
There are a number of public agencies that do not stream some or all of their meetings. Other agencies record their meetings, but only make the recording available by request, sometimes by public records request, which can take a long time. Without a recording of the meeting, Documenter’s notes are much harder for us to fact-check and edit. Sometimes, we will simply not assign Documenters to these meetings.
For us, public meeting audio assignments are a way to get audio of a meeting right after the meeting, when a recording is not otherwise available. From the transcript of the audio, we will be able to fact-check Documenters’ notes.
For you, public meeting audio assignments can offer a few opportunities:
- A way to build skills in recording audio and familiarity with recording software/apps.
- A way to connect with fellow Documenters on the assignment, particularly on in-person only assignments.
- A new way of holding government officials accountable and putting public meetings on the record.
- Depending on the quality of the audio and nature of the information, your work may be included in our Public Meetings Report podcast.
How do I do an audio assignment?
On an audio assignment, you will be asked to attend the meeting (in-person or remotely) and record audio of the entire meeting with whatever device you have (phones work great). You’ll then be asked to submit the audio file and complete your assignment checklist on Documenters.org. There will likely be a notetaker on assignment, too. Feel free to connect!
Payment
You will be paid for the length of the meeting (minimum 2 hours), plus 30 minutes to upload your recording and complete your checklist, plus 2 hours for attending the meeting in person. Minimum payment for an audio assignment is $45 for a remote assignment, $81 for an in-person assignment.
Resources, tips, and software for recording audio
- First things first: You've got the right to record public meetings! Under the Ohio Open Meetings Act, government agencies cannot prohibit members of the public from recording their meetings. If you run into any issues, reach out to us at [email protected].
- Use whatever setup is easiest — one that can record to a compressed audio file format that is easily uploaded to your assignment page.
- Compressed audio file formats include mp3, m4a, mp4, or aac, for example.
- Any voice memo or recorder app will record audio using one of these formats.
- Options include laptop, phone or mobile recording device. Think about what software or app you will use to record audio.
- Most Android or iPhones have voice memo/recorder apps included or available for free. Any of these apps will work on assignment.
- If using your laptop, try a free audio program like Audacity (more examples here).
- Think before using your phone. You won’t be able to take calls, and should avoid using it to text or take photos while recording. Always set your phone to silent.
- Make sure your recording device is fully charged. The ideal location for sound might not be near an outlet. Bring a charger in case the meeting runs long.