Podcasts:Where's the learning? And who's learning it?

Deubel, P. (2007). Podcasts: Where’s the Learning. THE Journal. Retrieved 11/27/2011 from http://thejournal.com/Articles/2007/06/07/Podcasts-Wheres-the-Learning.aspx?Page=1

Summary:

In this article, Patricia Deubel discusses podcast’s role in learning, and what might be done to improve the quality and accessibility. In her introduction she points out that when podcasts are used as a learning experience with no text equivalent provided, it can be an unfair inaccessibly assignment for the deaf and hearing impaired. In discussing the podcasts potential in student learning she explains that students can develop literacy and communication skills as they create podcasts. And that the easily publishable medium engages students with its real life application.

Response:

I appreciate the new perspective that Deubel brings when she notes the inaccessibility of podcasts such as hearing impairments, learning disabilities, and/or insufficient technology at home. I think teachers should certainly be aware of who their students are, and their specific needs, when designing any assignment, podcasts are no different. Also, I like the idea that podcasts can help student’s oral presentation and communication skills. For the shy or nervous students, I can see this as a welcomed alternative to creating a video or doing a live presentation. But many of the examples in this article of podcasts in learning, I think might be more effective if completed in other forms such as creating a video, multimedia presentation, or some kind of interactive presentation. So, though I do love listening to podcasts and can see the potential in learning, teachers should be mindful of the variety of media available, and be sure that podcast is the best media to meet certain learning goals.