Podcasting

Podomatic

http://www.podomatic.com

Podcasts are an effective way to share lecture material, support content and create multimedia projects that students can access on their own. Podcast sites can make use of RSS feeds that allow users to know when new content is posted, download content and use it whenever they want on their computers or mobile devices.

Pros:

  • Saves classroom time and engages students in meaningful learning experiences by directing students to selected episodes, asking them to review the content prior to a live session or class.
  • Can be easily categorized and by using RSS feeds, students will have access to the latest uploads as soon as they are posted.
  • Makes use of multimedia tools (audio and video) as well as text-based tools (PDF attachments) that can provide all elements of mini-lessons, which students can easily consult and use to keep up with lessons.
  • Accommodates research that indicates students prefer audio podcasts that do not go over five minutes.

Cons:

  • Requires preparation and advanced uploading time. You may be able to work with colleagues and share the load of your podcasts, by posting information on a department channel or a group channel.
  • Works best as public channels but you must ensure you own the content copyright or provide appropriate credits and references of the content you use. This also helps you model ethical use of information for your students.

How To:

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    Go to the home page of the tool at Podomatic.com

  • Watch this short video as an introduction to the tool.

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    Select the free Basic account when you first sign up for this tool.

  • Watch this short video to set up your free account on Podomatic.

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    To create a new podcast on this tool, give your podcast a title.

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    After you give the title and the description of your podcast, you will be asked to add the file - either an audio file or a video file which will be your podcast. There are size limits for the free account that you want to consider.

  • Watch this short video to learn the steps involved in creating your new podcast on Podomatic.

  • Watch this short video and learn how to complete each step to publish your podcast.

  • Watch this video to see how your podcast looks once it is published and how to share it with your students.

  • Watch this short video to get a few additional learning and teaching ideas using Podomatic.

Relevant Literature: