Technology for Teaching
Looking for a teaching tool to help create interest and appeal to a variety of learning styles? Podcasting might be the tool for you.
A year ago, I participated in a research study that introduced podcasting into the classroom. When I was first asked to participate in the study, I did not have clue what I was getting into nor the impact it have in the teaching environment.
The participants of the study were primarily Marketing professors from Ontario colleges. We attended a full day seminar on podcasting and were provided with the following instructions:
- Incorporate a previously recorded podcast into a homework assignment
- Incorporate a previously recorded podcast into our lecture
- Visit various podcasts sites related to our discipline
- Record our own podcast
Podcasting Myth #1
You need to be a technical wizard.
I am not a technical wizard. The programs used to create podcasts are very user friendly.
After a full day seminar, I was simply amazed by the possibilities. The keynote speaker panel included experts from Harvard, Duke and Carleton University who shared their learning curve experiences with podcasting. They also spoke of the flexible and enhanced learning that podcasting brought to the classroom environment. By the end of the keynote speakers' speeches, it was very clear to me that institutions who support podcasting will be considered leaders in education.
Podcasting Myth #2
Students require an i-Pod or MP3 player.
Podcast listeners require a computer and speakers, or ear phones.
A Pedagogical Case for Podcasting:
Below are some of the key learning benefits that can result from using podcasting in the classroom:
- Efficient use of time. Students can review content, case studies, news segments or lesson summaries prior to attending class.
Benefit: Incorporates multiple learning modes. - Flexible learning. Learners can have the flexibility to learn at their own pace. Students can digest the theory prior to attending your class and use class time to apply the theory.
- Reaches students within a context that they are comfortable. Combines what students enjoy with what they must do.
- Takes learning to where students are. Students can learn while at the gym, on their way to meet friends, on the bus or car ride to the College.
- Good use of instructor’s time & energy. Podcasts can provide clarification, and can go more in-depth on key topics. As a result, it frees up class time to assist students who require help.
- Means of conveying content consistently across course sections. Professors have the capability to create consistency between multiple course sections.
How can you incorporate podcasting into your learning environment?
Examples of ways podcasting could be used in the classroom include:
1. study abroad programs work
2. creating class discussions
3. download class information prior to class
4. testing: listening to a passage/speech during a test
5. reviewing material
6. guest speaker presentations
7. faculty professional development
Student Feedback
The student reaction has been positive. They are keen to know whether their future classes would be using podcasting. Because of their reaction, I know the possibilities are endless and I am motivated to continue include podcasts throughout Marketing I & II in the Business Marketing and BUAD program.
Since the study, I’ve used podcasts to create consistency between multiple sections of the Marketing I course. I have also kept the KISS rule (Keep it Simple Stupid!) at the top of my mind by implementing the technology slowly. There has been a learning curve which has been part of the experience. However, I have had great support from Learning and Teaching Services and ITS.
In the end, remember that podcasting is a tool that can be used to enhance your learner’s retention and interest similar to videos and webcasts.
If you are interested in exploring podcasting further,here are some useful links:
- Podcast.net - a directory of existing podcasts categorized by topic
- www.syndic8.com - a directory of podcasts - including international
- podcast directory on i-tunes - if you have an i-pod, use the "Subscribe Now" search box on the bottom left side of the page to find and subscribe to podcasts
- Teaching with Podcasting Learning Team Report This University of Illinois podcasting team report uses podcasts to describe podcasting.
I can be reached at monkj@algonquincollege.com, if you have any questions.
Good luck and happy podcasting!
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