Use of Podcasts

One of the most interesting things that I learned from the reading is, that podcasts are more versatile for students to use than other sources of technology. I have noticed that more students have cell phones at an earlier age than ever before. In many instances I have seen second and third graders using their phones to listen to music while waiting for their parents to pick them up. By using podcasts, students can now listen to assignments, and review lessons (for homework and studying) during this time. More often than not, when students tell their parents that they are using the computer for educational purposes, they are more apt to surf the web, and facebook instead. Parents have conveyed to me that when this occurs the child loses their computer privileges, and need a note to use the computer. With podcasts, that alleviates the loss of computer privileges, and podcasts can contain a lot of information that requires a short period of time to listen to.
More important, the readings highlighted the fact that podcasts can be used to assist English Language Learners (ELLs). Podcasts can be used to breakdown the vocabulary of content materials, and help further the students' understanding of content area concepts. The lessons on podcast would be short, but the students would have continuous access to the information. I would have never thought to use podcasts in this aspect, but after reading the article it makes sense.