Additional Advantages of Podcasts

• The tools used to create podcasts are relatively simple to use.  A simple microphone or a digital audio recorder can be used to create podcasts. We will focus more on the creation of podcasts in our next few posts.

• Podcasts can be used to provide individualized instruction. For example, if a student needs remediation, then a podcast can be helpful in providing additional instruction, tutoring, or review of content for those students.  Additionally, if an advanced student needs more immersion or needs to be provided challenging material then a podcast can be used to instruct advanced students.

• Finally, information and content can still be accessed when needed, whether that be "just-in-time" instruction before a major test or exam or as a preview or summation of a unit of instruction.   

Are you currently using podcasts for instruction?  If so, how, and what tools are you using for creating podcasts?

Advantages of Podcasts

We are going to continue our look at podcasts by looking at the advantages that podcasts afford instructors and students.  Below is a partial list of advantages for using podcasts for instructional purposes.

• Podcasts can be downloaded/captured to play on portable items such as MP3 Players and iPods. This affords the ability to take the podcast with one while traveling or moving to other locations outside the classroom.  

   

• Podcasts also offer convenience: the podcast can be listened to repeatedly and whenever the user chooses.

• Audio can be used to instruct the listener which is very helpful for students who are visually impaired. Video can be included which is especially helpful for visual learners.