Troubleshooting a soundcard oscilloscope that doesn't appear to affect the computer
I'm not familiar with your particular laptop but if it has only a single audio jack, it's most likely intended for headphones or powered speakers. 

However, the fact that you occasionally see something on the audio recorder application when you plug in makes me want to suggest something;

Try plugging in a earphones / microphone from a cellphone. I'm thinking specifically of a Samsung cellphone - I'm familiar with them. 

Now see if you can see anything on the audio recorder application when you speak into the microphone. 

What are need to find out is if your single audio jack has a mic input. Thus should help you find out.