Podcasting is a very unique way to share new information. It is great for subscribers who want to keep up with a certain show, created by ordinary people, without the use of major media. It is helpful because once you subscribe to a channel or website, the new shows will automatically down load to a computer, mp3 player, or any other handheld device. Teachers can use podcasts for a free way to further engage their students in the lesson by subscribing to an educational web site to receive live shows. For example, if a teacher is starting a new lesson series about a specific topic, he/she could use a podcast for daily or weekly discussions or videos. Also, students could be assigned to listen to podcasts on their ipods/laptops the be quizzed over the material in class.
Podcasting is different than the other web 2.0 tools we discussed earlier because unlike the other tools, podcasting, once subscribed, is continuous and uploads automatically. Also, it is more "personal" as it is stated in the "P" of podcasting. Much like DVRing a series on tv, podcasting isn't necessarily a one time thing. It can be a weekly subject that could go along with the lesson for that week or month or however long. It is similar to the other web 2.0 tools obviously because it is used through technology, but is meant to be shared. Like the other tools, it is readily available for students to download on any device. This is great for students when they are on-the-go and may need to listen to the lesson for the day instead of read it in a book or sit down and do homework.
I do have an ipod and if I was to listen to educational podcasts, for the benefit of my students I would either use my ipod to play the podcasts into a speaker, or assign podasts as homework or do both. I think online communication is beneficial to students because they need as much practice with technology as they can get because of the overwhelming number of employers looking for tech savvy employees. Also, it can be quite fun and different to add something new to the lesson. Rather than doing so much book work, why not allow for students to listen to a lesson, message, or idea through a podcast made by myself or someone else? I think this will engage more students and get them excited to learn.
Yes podcasting is a very good technology to use in the classroom. Especially as what I was reading if you are a subscriber you have some great perks. Along with the teacher the students and parents can also have an account too, to help grasp the information on your own time. Can teachers can even put their lessons and different activities on podcasting. Teachers can have the class create a blog post to express what they learn about a certain topic. The IPod is great Idea to bring to the classroom so they would not get bored easily. They can still learn and be excited at the same time.
ReplyDeleteLataucha Williams
I agree when you say podcasting is useful because the students are able to subscribe to their professors podcast. Podcasting is efficient because the students will be able to pay attention to the lessons and know what specific notes to write down instead of writing down everything from the power points.
ReplyDelete