Podcasting . . . what exactly is it? Technically different than merely posting files on the web, it is a means of publishing audio and video content on the web as a series of episodes with a common theme. Many schools are utilizing the means of podcasting in three main ways. The most common being creating audio or video archives of classroom lectures. Another way of implementing educational podcasting involves the delivery of supplemental course materials, usually designed to be listened to before coming to class. Lastly, many instructors use podcasts in a creative way by developing assignments for the students in which they are required to make and submit their own podcasts.
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So, the million dollar question is . . . does podcasting enhance education?
Speaking from the perspective of a K4 teacher, I could use podcasting to help me differentiate and enhance my teaching for those who are struggling in the classroom, to those students that are considered "average," as well as for the "advanced" students. What are some ways a teacher can do that?
For the struggling student, a classroom podcast could be used as a way for the them to take the content in again, in the hopes that it would help them gain a better understanding of the lesson. A supplemental podcast for the struggling student might bring the content to them from a different tack and help them grasp the material. Podcasts would also allow for the parent of the struggling student to be a part of the learning process for their child. The material would be made available for them to use at home, and to review with their child at their convenience.
As for the "average" student, a classroom podcast could be used as a review of the material at the end of each unit. It would also be a medium through which their parents could be informed about what they are learning in the classroom. Because, let's be real . . . what do most kids say when asked by their parent, "What did you do/learn at school today?" Frequently the answer is, "I don't know." Or, my personal favorite, which my own children have used on more than one occasion: "Nothing." Being a teacer, I know that not to be true, so I would've loved the opportunity to have watched a podcast of one of their lessons.
The "advanced" student, who doesn't need reinforcement or review, can watch a supplemental podcast to take them farther in the lesson than the rest of the students could go. These students could be assisted in putting together a "mini review podcast" of the lesson, from their perspective, for the other students to watch. This would be a great opportunity for them to begin understanding how technology works in addition to reinforcing the content. As a parent, it would be exciting to see them complete an activity like this.
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In addition to what we've already discussed, there are a couple of other advantages to podcasts in the classroom. One would be for those students who had missed class for whatever reason. They could watch the podcast at home and have the opportunity to get back on track in a quick manner. This would keep them from getting behind in their work, and in staying up with the curriculum with the rest of the class. Beyond that, students who generally process information a bit more slowly than the majority of the class can use podcasts to re-watch the lesson at their own pace. They would have the ability to pause the podcast, and also re-watch particular portions until they understood what was being taught. Both uses would be advantages producing win-win situations.
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In closing, as a Christian, something I think about is biblical principles that are important when it comes to establishing rules in, as well as outside of, the classroom in regards to the use of technology related to my particular classroom. The Bible would obviously not specifically say, "Thou shall/shalt not allow technology in thy classroom." So, what DOES the Bible say that I could apply to this situation? The Bible is very clear when it comes to what it says about living a life that is obedient to God and is God-honoring. Very vital aspects in living that life would include the use of discernment, self-control, restraint, good judgement and accountability. These are things I would need to keep in mind as I establish rules in regards to technology that my students would be expected to follow both inside and outside the classroom.
Some Scriptures that I need to personally keep in mind, are:
Titus 2:12 "It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age . . . "
Phillipians 4:8 "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."
James 3:1 "Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly."
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