Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Using Audio Podcasts in the Classroom: An article review

In reading the article “Use of audio podcast in K-12 and higher education: A review of research topics and methodologies” I found that most podcasts are relegated to instructors delivering lecture and/or supplementary materials to students allowing them the latitude to study on their own time as well as to replay pertinent information to ensure understanding about a range of topics. Concerns relating to students’ failure to attend classes due to the podcast’s availability are generally unfounded, since students typically prefer face-to-face interaction with their professors.

Most barriers to podcast use included student unfamiliarity with the format, technical issues arising from downloading, and more importantly, the loss of relevancy in student learning.  Teachers and/or instructors found difficulties involving unfamiliarity with podcasts, finding relevancy in their subject matter being taught, and often, a lack of time to prepare the podcast for broadcast in a timely manner. These were referred to as “first-order” and “second-order” barriers. (Hew, 2008)  Another barrier to learning is that podcasts are audio-driven technologies. In some cases, vodcasts (video-driven technologies) might better enhance learning in the student.

The reading suggested that a hugely valuable experience is to let students create their own podcast to establish the relevancy of their particular issue themselves. Students generally have a positive attitude towards the use of podcast and the ability to replay important information is of value to anyone trying to grasp a difficult concept.

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