1. Podcast impact: Measuring the effects of syndicated versus inline long-form audio in Open University distance learning content
Michael Collins – Learning Designer
Dr David Chapman – Senior lecturer (STEM)

2. Background
Syndicated A/V content, more commonly referred to as podcasting is a mature technology which has been developing for over a decade. Edison Research and RAJAR surveys indicate substantial and growing US and UK audiences
Potential educational benefits include:
Podcasts delivered through RSS feeds are a 'walk away' medium: they can download for free in the background when users are connected to the internet and be consumed offline later.
The ‘walk away’ concept was identified as attractive to students in OU-student, focus- group feedback (Olney, Alexander and Lawrence; 2018) and by Salmon and Edirisingha (2008).
The OU has previously experimented with podcasts, and uses syndicated material in different ways on a module by module basis.

3. Research question
Does syndicated, ‘on the move’ audio content affect student engagement, perception of and attainment with learning material when compared to traditional in-line audio content?
Prominent external research focuses on podcasting as a student activity, and perceptions of podcast material. This bridges a gap.
Vast majority of HE podcast content is recorded lectures instead of bespoke material
OU occupies a unique position with regards to HE distance learning delivery
This project builds on work already undertaken in TM255, which produced several pieces of long-form audio, mostly consisting of focused group discussions and interviews.
The stand-alone nature of each of these recordings (taking part within the context of module material, but self-contained in content) means that they could work well as independent podcast episodes, which students could consume separately from the VLE.

4. What we plan to do Identify & repurpose Design data gathering tools
Identify existing TM255 content for activity, repurpose to standalone unit for activity. Identify and code key concepts.
Agree evaluation methods and tools.
Design data gathering tools
Create activity to measure attainment of coded learning outcomes (quiz?)
Create questionnaire measuring student behaviour and perceptions of material
Test with Curriculum Design Student Panel
Run A/B test, with groups studying standalone unit with inline and syndicated longform audio activity respectively.
Evaluate
Analyse, document and report initial results.
Identify next steps.

5. Outcomes
Evidence comparing engagement with in-page audio material, based on VLE analytics, podcast hosting provider analytics and user behaviour questionnaire
Evidence comparing quiz results between inline and syndicated groups
User testing of syndicated podcast guidance for students
Questionnaire feedback informing practical recommendations for syndicated podcast use in modules