Previously I discussed Picnik and Flickr, another digital tool with various applications is the podcast.
Initially it was difficult to get my head around, as I had no clue how to even create a podcast, let alone how to store or upload it. Challenging would be an understatement but I persevered because this modality was so exciting.
After finally realising that a podcast requires the recording of the cast, I found a program called Audacity. Acting the goat, I am caught singing (badly, I might add) and I used this test to upload first through PodOmatic then as an embedded code on my blog. Well blow me down, it worked. Suffice as to say, my test cast is my example (please forgive).
To use again an old school analogy, I would describe podcasting as the cyber world's answer to tape recording. The days of holding your little recorder up to the speakers of your radio, so you can tape your favourite songs, is gone. Yes kids, totally lame, but it was all we had.
In terms of application, the only limitation is a lack of imagination. With English and History specialisations, podcasting has various applications. Looking through a lens of History, podcasting could be used to interview war veterans. This would provide a primary source for an ANZAC day retrospective. Translating podcasting to an English framework, students could use it as a creative writing scaffold. Memoirs, creative non-fiction and faction are ideal areas for use. Narratives could be hand written and edited and then turned into a podcast.
In simpler terms, podcasting provides a voice. However, its real value is in how that voice is contextualised through the internet as it provides a space for social consumption. Pod casts enable students to create a usable product, through the relate, create and donate features of engagement theory. Examples include a pod cast of say, a museum tour where it would have a real life application.
Certainly the list could go on, in my humble opinion, the podcast is a winner.
PMI
Positives: Allows students to create and develop own ideas.
Networks ideas and documents
Authentic space for consumtion
Minus: The process of podcasting is difficult, especially when a digital immigrant.
Need to have knowledge of ethics and copywrite
Interesting: Can be used in authentic spaces in which to learn. An example could entail the teacher podcasting the class and sick students or students who have difficulties learning could access podcast. This helps to reiterate work and processes.
Reflections of a podcasting goddess
What can I say, I am a podcasting goddess. Usually I don't like to boast but I can hold it in no longer. I not only achieved the creation of a podcast but I published it and the link below will eloquently take you there. Sure it is only a test pilot but I did it, yeahhhh.
To reiterate my previous reflections, podcasting has innumerable applications and I am looking forward to using it in my teaching areas. I had such a kick creating my test poddy that I believe the students will too.
