Podcasting

Expanding your classroom global perspective

The term podcasting originated from apple's iPod.  Podcasts  are a collection of audio files that can be automatically delivered to an iPod, MP3 player, or computer.  In addition to the iPod, a variety of mobile devices may b e used to play podcasts; including a computer.  Files may be published on the internet where users may subscribe to RSS feed and automatically receive new files.  Podcasts can be viewed from the internet or downloaded with a podcatcher such as iTunes.  Most importantly, there is a vast amount of free instructional content and the educational potential for students is insurmountable. The best podcaster plan in advance and provide interesting content. Kirk McElhearn, a senior contributor to Macworld magazine provides 8 rules of Effective Podcasting.  To begin a project, it may be helpful to review sample curriculum planning documents guide sheets and then on to completed podcasts.

Educational Podcasts

• BBC Radio Documentaries
•  K-12 Learn
• NPR Podcast Directory
• PRI's The World
  Smartboard Lessons Podcasts
• The Education Podcast Network
• Teach Digital

Podcast Hosting

• Hosting Services
• SwitchPod 
• Teacher Tube 
• You Tube

Podcasting Tutorials

• Digital Media
• Guidelines and Tutorials
• Podcasting Resources on the Web

Podcasting Music

• CCMixter
• Creative Commons Audio
• Free Play Music
• Free Sound
• Incompetech
• Podshow Music
• Soundzabound

VLC Video Player

• VLC
• YouTube Download

Podcasting Software

Podcasts can be created using a microphone and a number of mp3 devices or by using the iPod and the micromemo microphone.  These devices allow for mobile recording. To create a podcast using the computer will require software which comes standard on the iMAC and can be downloaded free if you are using a PC.  The websites for downloading the PC's software can be found in the chart below.

Group Dynamics

• Classroom Audio Podcasting
• Kathy Schrock's Podcasting in the Classroom 

Websites for James Langston Hughes audio