So you think podcasting might be an interesting tool to use in the classroom? Podcasting has many opportunities and can be used in many different subject areas. However, you as an educator should check that your computer lab has some of the essential pieces of hardware and software before embarking on this voyage. We wouldn’t go on a trip without packing a toothbrush or our wallet? You also don’t need to run over to Best Buy and purchase an expensive iPod or iPhone. In fact, all you need are the following:
1. Hardware
-A computer with the following: sound card, speakers, microphone and an Internet connection.
-If you plan on doing voice recording outside of a lab then you will need a hand held digital recorder.
2. Software
-Playback) Since a podcast is nothing more than an .mp3 file (a compressed audio file), all that is needed is software to play the mp3 files such as iTunes or Media player (http://www.podcast411.com)
-Recording & editing) To create the podcast you will need voice recording software. I would recommend audacity as it is free! (http://audacity.sourceforge.net). For royalty free music, let’s face it our students are going to want to use music in the background, I would suggest Incompetech (http://www.incompetech.com).
-Uploading) Placing your podcast online is the key to having it noticed. I would recommend using blogger.com as it is free and easy to setup (plus the students get a blog too). (http://www.blogger.com). You will, however, need a valid email to subscribe.
3. Creativity
-I would recommend checking with your students. I am positive that they could supply an endless amount of ideas for podcasting!
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