What is Podcasting?

The term Podcasting is a blend of two words, iPod and Broadcasting.  A misconception exists that students need to own an iPod to listen to podcasts.  Since podcasts are really just audio MP3 files, anyone who has an MP3 player, computer, or mobile device that plays MP3 files can listen to your podcast. 

Podcasting was developed out of the idea and success of radio shows and has grown in popularity with the availability of MP3 players along with the increased use of the Internet.  The term podcast, like radio, can mean both the content and the method of delivery.  The author of a podcast is often called a podcaster.  Podcast content may be downloaded or streamed and is distinguished from other digital audio formats by its ability to be downloaded automatically using software capable of reading feeds such as RSS. 

With enormous amounts of information available via radio, television, and the Internet, students no longer want to spend a lot of time looking for information; they want to "subscribe" to it.   The idea of subscribing to information from the Internet is like having your radio pre-set to specific stations.   Instant access to your podcasts is provided with aggregators or feed readers such as iTunes.

How can I use Podcasting?

Imagine a busy student listening to your class notes while riding in the car, jogging at the gym, waiting in the cashiers' line at the Atrium, or walking to your class.  More and more students are coming to Ball State with Podcasting skills, both in production and use.  They are already "tuned in" to Podcasting.  Providing short snippets or entire lectures in podcast format will be easily embraced by students who are already downloading and listening to MP3 files.  The ideas for the use of this type of content delivery are endless!!

10 Simple Steps to create a Podcast?

1. to existing podcasts to get some ideas for developing your style.
2. Build your ideas into a "show" type format.
3. Find your voice.
4. Find and download royalty free sound files to give your podcast energy.
5. Develop a project template in the audio application you have selected.
6. Write a script.
7. Record and Edit.
8. Export the audio file in an MP3 format.
9. Write an RSS file.
10. Copy the RSS (XML) file and podcast into an iWeb account folder.

University Libraries' Technology Training Support Services is offering Podcasting Workshops.  Register Today!