Using Podcasts in the Classroom

Chances are that the majority of students in grades 8-12 have already had some experience with Podcasts. Today's teens are more focused with listening as opposed to watching videos, because from an early age they are molded on a digital mindscape. Reading still presents the best outcome in learning, but listening to Podcasts produces a better result than watching videos. Podcast have been around for less than 20 years, think of Podcast as "radio on demand". There are numerous subjects on podcast, and can be effectively used in the classroom. To find a podcast just google " podcast: subject". Teachers find podcast cost effective as well...they are free. And producing a podcast takes less time and resources as producing videos.

Here are a few examples of how podcasts can work in the classroom:

Chances are that the majority of students in grades 8-12 have already had some experience with Podcasts. Today's teens are more focused with listening as opposed to watching videos, because from an early age they are molded on a digital mindscape. Reading still presents the best outcome in learning, but listening to Podcasts produces a better result than watching videos. Podcast have been around for a while, think of Podcast as "radio on demand". There are numerous subjects on podcast, and can be effectively used in the classroom. To find a podcast just google " podcast: subject". Teachers find podcast cost effective as well...they are free. And producing a podcast takes less time and resources as producing videos.

Creating Podcasts in the classroom is simple and easy, Plus Podcasts are Free, Entertaining, and Engaging, thus keeping the students focused. Students can create Podcasts in an interview style, covering a specific topic, or a format similar to old time radio. To record a Podcast, all you need is a microphone, laptop or computer, and recording software, Here are some products to consider:

Reaper FL Studio

Audacity Ableton

GarageBand (MAC OR IOS) LMSS

ProTools Sound Forge

Studio One Ardour

The second phase to Podcasting is to upload it and send it to a podcast catalog so users can find and listen to your Podcast. Anchor.fm and Soundcloud are two was to publish your Podcast to various platforms, once it is saved to a URL. Another item to consider is adding cover art and a catchy title to your Podcast. Take a look a the Podcast on Apple Podcast, one of the most popular platforms. The artwork and titles are the main drawing points for attracting listeners.

PBL - Podcast Based Learning is using Podcast as a supplement to traditional learning. In one case a Podcast on learning a foreign language can be used during off time to practice speaking terms.