The learning technology I have been exploring is podcasts. Although I am no stranger to sports podcasts, educational podcasting is fairly new to me. There are many benefits to using podcasts as a learning tool, including giving learners the flexibility of deciding when, where, and how they want to listen to the content (McNamara & Drew, 2019). After listening to an Ologies podcast on Gelotology (study of laughter) by Alie Ward, I have a new appreciation for this learning tool. Besides the fact that the topic was intriguing, the host is also extremely engaging through her tone and humour. I also enjoyed the storytelling aspect of the podcast as it kept me interested in the topic. Lee (2020) states that narrative storytelling is effective in podcasting “because it can transform abstract ideas to concrete experiences, give greater context for information, and give rise to emotional connections with the material” (p. 2). This has made me consider whether podcasting may be a valuable tool in my own teaching practice. As a television broadcasting professor, it is hard to envision podcasting being effective tool for my students in teaching the hands-on skills necessary in the field. However, using it as a tool to share stories and experiences of industry professionals could be instrumental.
As I continue to do research for my critical inquiry on podcasts as an effective learning tool, I will focus on equity. It is always a priority of mine that all learners, regardless of their background or circumstances, have equal access to high-quality educational content that is inclusive and representative of diverse perspectives. My research will explore how podcasts can be utilized to promote equity and representation in education, particularly among marginalized and underrepresented communities? Having a deeper understanding on how to generate content that is inclusive may be an extremely influential factor when ensuring equity in podcasting. I am looking forward to receiving feedback on this topic and other thoughts surrounding the importance of equity in educational podcasts.
References
Lee, E. S. (2020). Podcasts as a learning tool to engage students and increase understanding. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/341357594_Podcasts_as_a_Learning_Tool_to_Engage_Students_and_Increase_Understanding
McNamara, S., & Drew, C. (2019). Concept analysis of the theories used to develop educational podcasts. Educational Media International, 56(4), 300-312. https://doi.org/10.1080/09523987.2019.1681107
April 19, 2023 at 11:52 pm
Hi Giulia,
Thanks for posting. Because podcasting is one of my favourite ways to hear about new ideas, I’m happy to hear you’re exploring this medium.
As for podcasting being a teaching tool, maybe your students would benefit from thinking about what makes for compelling dialogue and training their ears to hear interesting ways to tell stories verbally and with sounds, rather than relying heavily on visuals.
Thanks again for the read, and I’m looking forward to updates on your podcast journey.
Bart
May 7, 2023 at 9:33 am
Hi Bart,
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I’m glad to hear that you share my enthusiasm for podcasting as a medium for exploring new ideas.
I completely agree with your suggestion regarding using podcasting as a teaching tool. It presents a unique opportunity for students to develop their listening skills and learn how to engage with compelling dialogue.
I appreciate your support, and I’ll definitely keep you updated on my podcasting journey.
Giulia
April 20, 2023 at 8:33 am
Thanks for your insights into podcasts as learning tools Giulia!
I appreciate your wanting to explore equity and diversity; have you found much research that looks into this particular aspect of podcasting? You may also find Kaczorowski et. al’s (2022) article on diversity and technology useful, as it defines and uses a very helpful framework for choosing or creating technology that reflects diverse classrooms.
I am excited to see what you discover!
Kaczorowski, T., McMahon, D., Gardiner-Walsh, S., & Hollingshead, A. (2022). Designing an
Inclusive Future: Including Diversity and Equity With Innovations in Special Education
Technology. TEACHING Exceptional Children, 0(0),
https://doi.org/10.1177/00400599221090506
May 7, 2023 at 9:39 am
Hi Terry,
Thank you for your comment and for appreciating my focus on podcasts as learning tools. I share your enthusiasm for equity and diversity in education and believe it’s essential to create inclusive learning environments.
To answer your question, I have come across some research on the topic of diversity in podcasting, but I am always looking to expand my knowledge and understanding. I will definitely check out the article you recommended by Kaczorowski et al. (2022).
Thank you once again for your support and for pointing me towards a valuable resource. I truly appreciate it!
Giulia