Podcasts
A definition or overview of educational purposes of this application
Podcasts are a more recent use of ICT in schools. A podcast is a piece of audio (sound file) which can be saved to your computer – and then listened to via your computer, iPod or other media players - even a mobile phone. For a further explanation, watch this simple video Podcasting in plain English created by Lee and Sachi Lefever at Commoncraft.com.” (From http://www.education.vic.gov.au/teacher/Global/podcasting.htm)
Classroom examples
- “How are teachers using podcasts in their classrooms?”
- Andrew Douch’s VCE biology podcasts.
- David Fagg is using podcasts in his Australian History classes.
- Ringwood North Primary School presents their podcast and vodcast website showcasing student work.
Podcast includes information on how to make an internet radio programme (podcast) as a class project. - This video from Teachers TV outlines how some teachers in England are using podcasts in their classes.
Hint sheets on how to use the application
- The Teachers’ Beehive: useful advice on how to integrate ICT into your classroom using vodcasting and podcasting
- PodOmatic podcast portal: Create, Find, Share Podcasts, podcasting tips, free podcast tools, learn how to podcast
Some readings
[We have focused on articles that are readily available at RMIT, usually via the Library’s databases and e-journals]
- Atkinson, R. (2006). Podcasting: do you really need to know? HERDSA News, 28 (2), p20-22. Retrieved 4 November, 2008
[A light hearted look at the negatives of podcasting, but with useful discussion along the way] - Campbell, G. (2005) There’s something in the air: podcasting in education. EDUCAUSE Review, 40 (6), p32-47. Retrieved 5 November, 2008 from
[A very easy to read article discussing the rapid growth in podcasting and its benefits for educators – as a particularly powerful form of communication] - Mikat, R., Martinez, R&Jorstad, J. (2007). Podcasting for your class (Technology Tips). Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, 78 (5), p14-17
[Very short article, a “how to” guide, with a brief outline of benefits] - Lee, M., McLoughlin, C., & Chan, A. (2008). Talk the talk: Learner-generated podcasts as catalysts for knowledge creation. British Journal of Educational Technology, 39 (3), p501-521. (See also Australian Educational Computing, 21 (2) 2006, for a shorter article on the same project by these authors). [Although tertiary-focused, this article reports on the learning benefits of students creating their own podcasts – particularly metacognitive benefits]