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Audiobook

The audiobook is a form of long, audio content distributed electronically usually through CDs or the Internet. Contrary to podcasts (that are short and focus on one specific issue) audiobooks are more like a typical book in structure, capacity and language or simply represent their accurate adaptation to an audio form.

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Worth to know

  • Unlike written text audiobooks allow for the addition of some personality through being read by the author with an intonation that brings out their intentions.

  • The way of speaking, intonation, and tempo may have an enormous impact on the reception and even the meaning of the message. Good speakers know this, and their speeches can move whole crowds.

  • Listening develops the ability to… well, listen. In many workplaces this ability is desirable.

  • It is worth acknowledging that the strength of audiobooks (using them during other activities), is also somewhat of a restriction. the fact that the listener will not be fully concentrated needs to be considered. In that case, the content should be more inspirational, and with the use of a story, rather than concise and to the point.

  • In international organizations, audiobooks in a different language support the learning of a foreign language - usually the language used outside the organization. Thanks to that employees learn the proper pronunciation and accent, they are after all listening to texts recorded by a professional lector.

  • An upside of audiobooks is contact with strong, charismatic individuals recognized by employees - CEOs, visionaries, public persons. Their voice may have a strong influence in audio recordings.

  • Not all content is fit to be prepared in audio form e.g. content that is too scientific or contains too many graphic elements (patterns, diagrams).

  • The audiobook can be an easily accessible form for learners because listening to them is easy on a variety of devices - smartphones, car stereos or personal computers. It is also relatively easy to share audio files.

  • The involvement of a professional actor or a recognizable speaker (e.g. an authority) can make the message more attractive, and recording the author (e.g. a CEO) may personify the content.

  • Audiobooks can be listened to during other, not too absorbing activities, such as traveling, waiting for something or doing sports recreationally. The audio form usually increases the availability of books for example to people who often drive a car.

  • The audiobook may come in one package with a printed book and e-book, which allows the employee to choose the form, which fits their learning style and preferences.