Podcasts

Podcasts

With the hustle and  bustle of the world we live in, creating a podcast is a great way to listen on the go.  A podcast is a series of digital audio or video files which a user can download and listen to.  Using a podcast as an educational tool is a fun and engaging alternative to learning..  I would like to explore a few with you.

SoundCloud 

I already have a SoundCloud account.  It is the world's leading social sound platform where anyone can listen to or create sounds and share them everywhere.  You can sign up through your Facebook or Google account, or just use your email address. It is also available through your mobile app for the iPhone and iPad.  You can post and share your music, make playlist and use as a social networking tool to interact with others.  There is a free version, but for an inexpensive monthly fee you can upgrade for more options.

Audioboom (Audioboo Ltd, Developer) 

It was quite the challenge to locate the app for Audioboo.  The name changed to Audioboom, which is powered by Audioboo Ltd.   This challenge discourages me from recommending it.  In the setup process, it did not confirm my login information was accepted.  It gave me an error message.  Once confirmed, I was able to set personal recommendations based on interests.  Once established, it was simple as clicking a button and recording. You are also able to edit and upload straight from the app. I recommend creating a link for students to access directly to avoid the confusion I experienced.

Podomatic

Podomatic is free and simple to setup.  You must set up a URL, however, you can not change your URL once you select it.  There is a step-by-step tutorial that guides you through how to select media, enter title/description, add images, choose quality and publish.  It also gives you the option to use the old publishing flow.  I felt this podcast was a little too complex for lower grades but, maybe a good option for middle and high school.  Podomatic was my least favorite.

Podcasting is a creative, engaging and fun way to share information and music. Overall, all three podcast can be helpful resources in the classroom with supervision and knowledge.  The free versions are have enough features that can produce quality and informative material.  From my explorations, I would highly recommend a direct link to podcast, teacher controlled supervision and a thorough beginners presentation, Although my initial introduction was not pleasant with Audioboom, I would still recommend it.  As stated before, once established, it is a matter of clicking a red bottom, recording and publishing….1, 2, 3, A, B, C.


Use of Podcasts in the Library

• teach digital citizenship and safety (some podcast do not allow membership under 13-teacher controlled account)
• Share library webpage events and announcements
• Create classroom assignments or directions
• Record stories for accessibility

Here are a few links to information on educational podcasts.  Please explore at your leisure.

Best Education Podcast 2018
https://player.fm/featured/education

50 Educational Podcast You Should Check Out
https://www.opencolleges.edu.au/informed/features/50-educational-podcasts-you-should-check-out/

10 Podcasts That Will Make You Feel Smarter
http://mentalfloss.com/article/80043/10-podcasts-will-make-you-feel-smarter

8 Great Educational Podcast for Kids
https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/educational-podcasts-for-kids/

18 Best Podcasts for Kids in Elementary, Middle and High Schools
https://www.weareteachers.com/best-podcasts-for-kids/

Check out my podcast example by using the QR Code below.