I am an individual who would much rather watch a podcast than create one. TED Talks are one of my favorite ways to increase motivation and YouTube is my favorite way to learn. I especially appreciate YouTube for hands-on skills such as learning a new crochet stitch or pattern.
After some reflection, I realized that I create 'almost-podcasts' each week when I teach my students. I create a recording of my teaching for students whom were absent to view. They are able to access past classes from their homepage and review as often as needed.Obviously, this is not a podcast because it is follow the typical formula of digital audio, RSS Feed, and internet accessibility. It is possible that it could be considered as lecture webcasting, although it is only available to a closed circuit (King & Cox, 2011).
A benefit of assigning podcasts as assignments is to encourage students to broaden their horizons when it comes to digital technology. This past week's assignment definitely forced me out of my comfort zone, as I was originally uncomfortable creating a podcast. Another benefit, as I referenced in the use of YouTube, is using podcasts in tutorial form. It is much easier to learn, at least for me, with a visual demonstration which can be stopped and started as many times as needed.
While the assignment of podcasts can be a benefit, it can also be a drawback. This is especially concerning in large classes with limited time. An instructor may not have the resources available to instruct and troubleshoot with students who are experiencing this technology for the first time.
As I mentioned, my favorite use of podcasts are for teaching myself crochet. The following link is a crochet podcast site hosted through PodBean which is a platform to explore and create podcasts.
The Crochet Circle is a good example of a simple podcast/blog site. They have the episodes listed down the right hand side and the ability to subscribe through RSS. If crochet isn't one of your interests, you can return to the PodBean hosting platform and select podcasts from a menu including comedy, music, education, and more.
King, K. & Cox, T. (2011). The professor’s guide to taming technology. Charlotte, NC:
Information Age Publishing.
The Crochet Circle. (2016). http://thecrochetcircle.podbean.com/
