Podcast?

What is Podcast? A podcast is an audio or video file archived on the Internet in such a way that it can be automatically accessed by a personal computer, downloaded and transferred to a portable MP3 player. Although the term derives from combining the terms iPod and broadcast, the technology can be utilized across Apple and PC platforms.

Accessing Existing Podcasts You need to have software that will play mp3 files. Once an appropriate podcast has been sourced, it can be manually downloaded. The process may be slightly different for each site, so it is important to read the instructions. Podcasts may also be delivered to your computer automatically by subscribing to a podcast feed. A good general introduction to podcasting can be found on the ABC's Radio National site.

Subscribing to Podcast Feeds It is possible to receive podcasts automatically from your favourite sites. You will need an RSS aggregator such as Juice Receiver (formerly iPodder) or iTunes. Variations in the RSS standards mean that not all podcasts are compatible with all aggregators. Be aware that schools operating behind fire walls may not be able to take advantage of subscription services and many schools block the downloading of mp3 files.  

Creating podcasts There are three main stages in creating a basic podcast: 1. Recording. You will need a microphone and software such as Audacity (cross-platform) or GarageBand (Apple) to record your sound file. A number of sites on the Internet offer tutorials for using the software, such as this one on setting up and using Audacity by Jake Ludington and Apple's page on using GarageBand for podcasting. 2. Publishing. Once you have created your audio file and saved it, usually in mp3 format you need to upload it to a webserver. Many sites on the internet, including Blogger offer free podcast hosting services. Make sure you read the Terms of Service. 3. Publicising. Having created your podcast and uploaded it to make it available to potential users you need to provide a way for users to access your files. This may be as simple as providing a link from an existing webpage or more complex, such as creating an rss feed document which will allow users to subscribe to your podcast. Depending on the traffic your webpage receives, and the intended audience for your podcast, you may also choose to register your podcast. A comprehensive list of Podcasts Suitable for Educators, Schools and Colleges is maintained by RECAP.  

Educational Value of Podcasts Podcasts can be created from original material by students and teachers or existing audio files can be downloaded for classroom use. Creating a podcast allows students to share learning experiences. It provides them with a world-wide audience that makes learning meaningful and assessment authentic. Teachers can use the technology to provide additional and revision material to students to download and review at a time that suits them. The flexibility that such time-shifting offers makes podcasting a valuable educational tool.

Educational Podcasts An increasing number of podcasts that are suitable for students are being made available from reliable organisations such as the ABC and CSIRO. ABC Podcasts and MP3s Most Radio National programs are available in podcast format ABC EdPod http://www.abc.net.au/rn/podcast/ Education issues for educators and parents CSIRO Podcasts NASA Podcasts The Education Podcast Network http://epnweb.org/index.php EPN is an effort to bring together into one place, the wide range of podcast programming that may be helpful to teachers looking for content to teach with and about, and to explore issues of teaching and learning in the 21st century.  

Podcast Wizards A number of Internet sites offer free creation tools and hosting for podcasts. These sites offer a quick way to record and publish a podcast where the educational emphasis is on the content of the podcast rather than on developing the technology skills required to create your own podcast. Odeo http://odeo.com/ PodBean http://www.podbean.com/ PodOmatic  

Podcasting can be used for: 1. Self-Guided Walking Tours - Informational content. 2. Music - Band promotional clips and interviews. 3. Talk Shows - Industry or organizational news, investor news, sportscasts, news coverage and commentaries. 4. Training - Instructional informational materials.

Podcasting Resources – Podcasting Tools - http://www.podcasting-tools.com Podcast Alley - http://www.podcastalley.com PodcastBunker - http://www.podcastbunker.com Podcasting News - http://www.podcastingnews.com

PODCASTING IN PLAIN ENGLISH http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDLqu0d-z8o http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hrBbczS9I0&NR=1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hrBbczS9I0&feature=related http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IC3VZkfdgV8

Compiled By Shirlette Ferrari