In our modern and fast paced society, new technologies are constantly being created. It is important for teachers to understand these new technologies and how they can be a very useful teaching tool in a classroom. Given the availability of some new technologies, more and more schools are able to provide their students with access to these new mediums, such as Smart Boards, iPads, and easy access to the web. Our ability as teachers will be greatly enhanced if we are able to harness these types of technologies and make ourselves more culturally relevant to the younger generations.
New technologies often scare people who are not familiar with them. This is totally understandable. What we need to be though is open minded and be willing to possibly fail at first in using these new technologies. From this we will learn and come to understand what this new technology can do for us. It may be necessary that we seek out training. Something the new technological age has brought us is the ability to share information with anyone in the world. One of the common ways is though the podcast. The podcasts are recorded audio clips that can be downloaded, but also uploaded to the web. Students can download podcasts from the web to learn about many different topics, ranging across the curriculum. It also allows students to be informed on current events, listen to their favourite stories, and listen to interviews, which may be with anyone (fictional, historical, etc.). A podcast can also be an excellent way for students to learn about social issues such as bullying, racism, cultural differences, etc.
Students are also now given the opportunity to create their own podcasts. Creating podcasts is an excellent way for children to develop and enhance their literacy skills. By creating their own podcasts, students can be able to discuss/voice their own thoughts and opinions, and be creative (take on roles/other characters). Podcasts give students the opportunity to share information on a topic or event, they can give information on their school or community, it can let children discuss literature, or it can allow children to take on different roles (past and present, fictional and non-fiction) by conducting interviews with the given person (student in role). Podcasts can also allow children to discuss hard issues like bullying. From this, children can share this with people from all over the world, and it lets others give feedback on their work. However, we must always be wary of what is presented on the web, and be aware of individual’s privacy and safety. It will be necessary to get permission from others, such as the principal and parents.
The major obstacles I see with creating podcasts, come down to availability of equipment, willingness to participate, time, and concession of parents to allow content to be posted. Not all schools can afford this type of equipment, however many families may have access to such technology that would help with this. But what about if teaching in a very low income area (Jane-Finch area in Toronto)? Many of these families would not have such technology so readily available, same with the schools. Even if I provided some, it possibly would not be enough to allow all the students to participate, but maybe this is ok. Children must want to participate in doing this. I am sure there will always be some who are reluctant, which might pose a bit of a challenge, but hopefully we can get them involved in some way. Time is always a huge issue when teaching. There is a lot to cover, so hard to determine how much time should be set aside for such ventures. The good thing is that podcasts can be used for any course. The final issue might be having some parents not allow their child to be a part of anything posted online. Is it fair to leave these children out? And if so, is it fair to all the other students to let them not participate because of a few?
Podcasts and other technological devices in the classroom I view as being hugely beneficial and it is a great way for children to be more engaged. I truly hope that as a teacher, that I will soon be having my students using all this great new technology to better enhance their learning and knowledge.
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Thanks for your thoughts on podcasts in the classroom. You bring up many valuable points - but the one that stuck out to me was this:
ReplyDelete"I am sure there will always be some who are reluctant, which might pose a bit of a challenge, but hopefully we can get them involved in some way." Some students might want to participate in the behind-the-scenes production of the podcast. They might take on the role of director, editor, script writer, etc. This would actually better replicate the true nature of production....that it takes a team of individuals working together to get the job done successfully.
Often when we're teaching we think everyone has to be doing the same thing....but we know from our readings and experiences that one approach will not fit all learners. We can invite them to the experience, but perhaps there is a better, more useful tool for them to use at the time.