Podcast+&+Vodcast

=Podcasts & Vodcasts=

What is a Podcast?[[image:podcast.jpg width="156" height="138" align="right"]]
The name "podcast" combines the terms iPod and broadcast into a single catchy word. As the name suggests, podcasts are audio and video broadcasts that can be played on an iPod. However, because podcasts are downloaded using Apple iTunes and can be played directly within the program, you don't actually need an iPod to listen to a podcast.Podcasts are distributed by both professional organizations as well as amateur audio producers who want to share their content with others.Podcasts can be browsed within the iTunes Music Store or found directly on an organization's website, which often provides links to current podcasts. Amateur podcasts can be created by anyone who has a microphone or digital video camera and a computer with recording software. In fact, recent versions of Apple's GarageBand include special options for creating and exporting podcasts. Amateur podcasts are not always available through the iTunes store, but can be distributed on the Web. A simple link to the podcast will open the file in iTunes, making it possible for anyone with a website to publish podcasts. Podcasts are often distributed in "episodes," meaning new podcasts are made available on a regular basis. Users can subscribe to these podcasts, which iTunes can automatically download as they become available. Once podcasts are downloaded, the files are saved in the iTunes Library and can be viewed within the Podcasts section. They can be played within iTunes or transferred to an iPod, so users can watch or listen to podcasts while they are on the go.

The Video below shows how a Podcast is integrated into the classroom: @http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExkMeQfuLGc

What is a Vodcast?[[image:vodcast.jpg width="120" height="120" align="right"]]
A video clip designed to be viewed in a portable device. Also called a "vcast," "vidcast" and "videocast," a vodcast is the video counterpart of a podcast and uses the same RSS syndication method for delivering material to users. In order to have a vodcast, a Podcast must be present.

This video shows how vodcasts can be used in the classroom: @http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFbC5EcBXBc

How are Podcast & Vodcast used in education?
In education podcasting and vodcasting opens many doors for students and teachers. Podcasting/Vodcasting allows educators to reach students using a medium they are accustomed to. Students today are digital natives. Even very young students have spent time online reading email, playing games, looking up information, or communicating with friends. It can be used to interact with students and parents beyond the four walls of a classroom and can be a great facilitator to increase student engagement. Podcasting/Vodcasting is an inexpensive way to create digital content for your classroom. It is not just for high school or higher education but can also be used by elementary and middle school students. To be marketable in the 21st century, students need to have opportunities to foster their creativity and learn to think outside of the box. They also need the technology skills to compete in the job market post K-12 education. Podcasting/Vodcasting can help foster student creativity and prepare them for a global market. Podcasting/Vodcasting can be used as a way to allow students to have a creative outlet during the school day. Teachers can also use podcasting to create "testing review" sessions for students. Student created podcasts/vodcasts give students the opportunity to enhance their organization, communication and technology skills. Podcasting/Vodcasting will also benefit students by giving them the opportunity to listen and or watch classroom content multiple times. Students who are absent on a given day can download the classroom podcast/vodcast and not miss out on valuable classroom instruction. Homeschool students can also benefit by allowing them to download the classroom content which will provide more instruction than they may get through homeschool services.

How Teachers use Podcast and Vodcasts:[[image:pod_and_vod.jpg width="576" height="432" align="right"]]

 * Record classroom expectation at the beginning of the year
 * Classroom lectures
 * Supplemental information - information beyond what is covered in the classroom
 * State testing review sessions
 * Record classroom discussions

How Students use Podcast and Vodcasts:

 * Student radio style broadcasts
 * Student projects
 * Digital storybooks
 * Student created content overviews or reviews
 * Conduct interviews with individuals in the community or school

For more Information on Podcast and Vodcasts: @http://lis5313.ci.fsu.edu/wiki/index.php/Podcasting/Vodcasting_-_How_Can_Libraries_Get_On_the_Air%3F

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