Podcasting in Language Learning

The reading and listening materials on podcasting gave me a new insight in implementing podcasts for language learning purposes. The research paper by Palitha Edirisingha revealed the three main features of podcasts identified as facilitating student learning. I think the first benefit, that is learner choice and flexibility, provides a unique opportunity for learners to shift the control over the pacing of learning activities from the teacher into their own hands. This means they can listen to podcasts at a place, time and pace of their choice, even on the move. What is very attracting is that they can replay the podcast in case they missed some part of the speech or didn’t attend the lecture. The second benefit is that learners have access to peer knowledge. They can listen not only to their tutor’s voice but also the real conversation between peers and tutors. This friendly tone can really attract students’ interest. Besides, as Manning states, voice humanizes and personalizes, and helps the listener connect with the speaker. There is also potential for students to create their own podcasts for peers. And the third benefit which I find no less important is the possibility of carrying out formal learning through informal processes which motivates students more in the academic context.

I believe that podcasting can serve well for improving learners’ study skills. As was found out in the research, podcasts helped students in the preparation for workshops, presentations and portfolio development. Taking into account all the advantages of podcasting, I myself am going to implement it in my classroom. Jeff Mehring’s paper on Recipe Exchange Podcasts was helpful from the practical point of view. To be able to use the activities described in his paper, first I will need to set up a webpage or weblog where students will post their podcasts and listen to their peers. The RSS feed will allow to easily track down their work. Students will need a computer with Internet access and a microphone to create and listen to podcasts. Next, it’s important to introduce them to podcasts – where they are located, how students can access them, and how podcasts can be used for their learning.

Christopher Shamburg’s interview presented in the ISTE Podcast added to my general understanding of the role of podcasts in language learning. Thus, kids learn how to synthesize, identify, and choose different mediums, how to develop ethical skills and knowledge on the rights and responsibilities in the digital world, how to connect their personal interests with real-life activities. Podcasting allows for meaningful participation not just in the classroom but in the world and makes learners effective and ethical consumers of media.