Podcasting in Library Research

A Discussion of Three Projects Developed Using New Audio Technologies

Abstract

The integration of Information and Communication Technologies into the school curriculum is a growing trend around the world and certainly mandated by the education authorities in the Australian state of New South Wales. One of the difficulties often faced by teachers is that the use of technology can often distract students from the relevant curriculum outcomes. This paper discusses the use of student created Podcasts with Stage 3 students (10-12 year olds) to enhance learning outcomes. It briefly examines the educational theory that suggests why podcasting could be of educational value and then traces the development of three different units of work that were undertaken at my school by a team of teachers and support staff. The process that we went though and the outcomes that were observed by the students and their teachers will also be discussed.