Podcasts
Podcast are radio shows that one can listen to at any time in any place. The free audio or video shows are distributed through RSS. The shows are pushed to subscribers as they’re published, like DVR, magazines or Google Reader. Once they’re downloaded, they can be played regardless of Internet connection. For educational purposes, educators can utilize and create unique, scholarly, and leisurely material that is easy to access.
I explored various platforms for creating or casting podcasts.
Anchor was the first platform that I practiced with. I found it to be pretty easy to use. After signing up for the free account, I was automatically directed to the page where the magic happens! The tabs found on the left hand side are very straightforward. I recorded a few minutes of information, then decided to add transition sound to make the podcast seem a bit more interesting. This free option only allows a five-minute podcast to be created, though. The transition tab had a variety of sound-clips to choose from for both an intro and a conclusion to my podcast. There is a small clip page on the right hand side where you basically choose the audio clips that you have recorded, and the music or sounds you want to add as well. Then you can just drag them in which ever order you want. After listening and adjusting your entire podcast creation, you save and publish. Pretty simple!
Buzzsprout was another platform that I tried. This one does not have the capability of creating the podcast on the site, but I was able to create it on my laptop’s recording software and then upload onto the hosting site. If I wanted to be able to add music or sound clips, I would have to know how to on my own. Other than that, I found it to be an easy platform for hosting your podcast.
This platform seemed pretty easy at the start. It had a quick signup and then the creating began. I followed a quick tutorial slide and then began recording. Once completed, my page was complete. My only issue was that I would have liked to include transition music but I was not prompted with the opportunity to do so. If you’re looking for simple voice podcasts, this might be a good source.
Of the three podcast platforms that I tested, I think Anchor would be the easiest to utilize in the library. The simplicity of the tabs to record your podcast and add music and sounds would be easy for anyone to learn. I have attached a podcast that my group partner and I created to help librarians who are transitioning from the classroom.
What To Do With It!
Now that you have some information on what a podcast is and some of the platforms to host your podcast, here are some ideas for how to utilize them in the educational setting:
-let your listeners know what’s new in the library
-host book talks
-create book reviews and book trailers
-create public service announcements for the school community
-read stories to share during storytelling time
-providing PDs for professionals
-deliver research content to students
-have students create their own podcast
Where Can I Find Educational Podcasts?
5 Minute Librarian: All you need to know in the time you have
American Libraries
Scholastic
Anchor is a new platform for me! I used Buzzsprout in the past, but it only keeps your podcast for a certain amount of time and then deletes it. That's a bummer, so I switched over to Podbean. However, I think Anchor sounds like another good option. Also, your podcast was super helpful, as I am going to be a new librarian come August! Thanks for sharing!
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