Podcasts

A podcast generally refers to an audio file that has been recorded in the manner of a radio broadcast, but can also refer to video files and even documents (iTunes website).  Most podcasts are not live and therefore allow for multiple takes, editing, and the addition of music or sound effects.  Podcasts can be created as a one-time event but most popularly occur as a running series.  The audio files can be downloaded from the Internet through a number of sources, and places like iTunes allow you to subscribe to a podcast series.  (Reich & Daccord, 2008, p. 207)  Anyone is allowed to create their own podcast series for download on iTunes as long as they follow copyright laws and walk through the necessary steps.  Click here to access the iTunes FAQ's page for podcast makers.  If you prefer to keep your podcast more private you can simply add the audio files to your class website that can be accessed by students and their families. 

Podcasts are a great example of how technology can be used to enhance a lesson.  Before students record a podcast they first need to choose an idea to express and then make their way through the writing process just as they would with any other writing lesson.  Podcasts can be used as a way for students to express what they have learned throughout the week, or as a culmination of their ideas at the end of a unit.  This is an excellent way to promote writing across the curriculum as well.  In a direct tie to reading, students can record book reviews, present perspective pieces, and conduct interviews.  In New Zealand, teacher Sue Halsey (2007) has implemented regular podcasts in her classroom and has found that her students are more motivated to write and put more thought into doing so.  As they record their podcasts students practice their reading, speaking, and listening skills (Halsey, 2007, p. 102) while producing final products they are excited to share.  Halsey (2007) states that even if her students’ work is not reaching a large audience “the children’s notion of a perceived worldwide audience and the very act of publishing on the Internet have seemed to provide sufficient purpose and motivation” (p. 102).  Click here for examples of student generated podcasts.  

Collaboration is another key factor when it comes to creating podcasts in the classroom.  The process provides a creative platform for students to work with one another and share their thoughts.  Conversations can also be sparked from the content itself that is published by students, and having an electronic database that students can easily access will likely promote more frequent and relevant sharing of student work (Robinson & Mckenna, 2008, p. 266).  With book reviews (and other content) available in a searchable database, students can type an author or book title into the search box on their class website and hear reviews posted by their peers.  What a fun way to determine if a particular book is of interest to them!