I must admit that, until this course, I have not accessed podcasts related to education. While I tend to enjoy researching instructional strategies, techniques, and ideas, I have not yet used podcasts as a source for teaching information or perspective. In the past, I have accessed podcasts prepared and released by my church. These podcasts, released weekly, reinforce that which is taught on Sunday and offer additional thoughts and perspectives. Through this assignment, my eyes have been opened to the extensive educational podcasts that are available.
I started my survey of educational podcasts through the Learn Out Loud website. This website is designed for podcasts that can “teach something.” Initially, I came across a podcast titled Tech Teachers Podcast (perfect for someone studying Instructional Technology, right!?) Unfortunately, I found this podcast to be disjointed (lots of unrelated information) presented by two people that seemed unprepared. While at times, they offered interesting insight, I kept wishing that I could just read the information. The presenters were spent time verbally stalling and often talked in circles. Next, I decided to explore NPR’s Education Podcast. Here I found more relevant and useful information presented in a clear and coherent manner. Because I enjoyed this podcast so much, I subscribed to the feed using iTunes. Now, I will be able to access these podcasts quickly and easily each week, straight from my iPod or iPad.
I am very excited to begin subscribing to educational podcasts that will entertain me when reading isn’t an option!