Podcasting in the Classroom

Podcasting in the Classroom by Brian Flanagan

I enjoyed reading about the Duke University podcasting initiative. I love listening to audio books on my IPOD. In addition, I have recorded presentations I have attended so that I can listen back to certain parts for clearer understanding. However, I had not thought of some of the ideas like “Sound Seeing.” Giving a tour by podcast is a great idea and an exciting way to get kids sharing information in a way they understand and enjoy. Podcasting makes it easy to share lectures and other material therefore giving access to everyone who can listen to audio and helping to bridge the divide between those who have typically had access to various types of lectures and information and those who have not. Conducting interviews and field research is so much easier with this tool. I am excited about the possibilities. I can attest to the fact that this technology can and does make a difference. I have a six year old who did not want to write a story. He could think of nothing to write. Each day was a fight over getting something down on the paper. I had an idea. I let him tell his story to the IPOD. He easily came up with a story idea and recorded it. Then, he listened back to the story and wrote it on paper. Can technology make a difference? You bet. I look forward to seeing what innovative learning experiences come from this emerging technology tool.