Podcasts

Podcasts for teaching and learning is a new concept to me.  While researching ways to use podcasts in the classroom or library I came across many great ideas.  Here are a few ideas for using podcasts in the classroom or library:

• To tell stories
• Share and comment on recent events
• Persuade listeners to act or a to take a stance on a topic
• As a tool for teaching students to use spoken language
• Promote the library
• Sharing school news
• Book reviews or trailers
• To teach others about a library skill
• How-to’s for library procedures
• Flipped library lessons

Podcasts can be a excellent way to get information to students, staff, or parents.  The process of creating a podcast is simple and can be easily taught to students.  There are a few things that can make pod-casting difficult if it is not planned.

• Must have microphone for audio
• Should have a script or topic to discuss
• Must know how to edit and it can be time consuming
• May need to download additional software for some programs

The podcast player I chose to use was Podomatic.  Podomatic used a step by step system for the easiest uploading possible.  Their interface was simple and easy to use.  Podomatic allows the user to create a podcast that can be shared or embedded.  Users can also use the listen feature.  The listen tab allows users to listen to trending or featured podcasts. 

I will continue to use Podomatic for future use.   I made a podcast about the sunflower life cycle, a topic we are studying in my Kinder class.   Enjoy!