Thing 15: Podcasting in the Classroom

I have always thought about using pod casts for me personally and professionally...but hadn't yet made that jump to explore them in the classroom. But now, after spending some time learning and exploring them, I can see endless possibilities.

I can see them two ways really...listening to them and creating them. Both ways would help enhance the curriculum and support using technology to our advantage.

I work with struggling readers and finding pod casts that are set to music would be great...I have seen the research that connects music to reading ability and definitely want to pursue that.

I also am interested in producing pod casts with kids. I go back to the wiki collaboration for literature discussions...blogs about books and now pod casts that could include those as well.

My oldest son completed a (in his Kindergarten voice) "multimedia presentation" for the last day of school. I was so impressed that he said "multimedia presentation" let alone that he collaborated with teachers and classmates to create a Down on the Farm video with voices narrating. Hats off to his teachers who are seeing the value in this work!!!

I think our district would be very supportive of using pod casts. Videos are used in the classroom so I can't see why it would be a problem. I always feel lucky to be in the district that I am. There is the freedom and the trust to do what is right for kids. It makes trying new things that much easier!!

If anyone has any great pod casts they know of that might support some of the things I have mentioned...I'm always up for suggestions!!!