Downloading the Current State of Podcasting on Campus: What Are the Implications for Teaching and Learning?

Abstract

A podcast is any digital media file, or series of files, distributed over the Internet for playback on portable media players and personal computers. In this study, we explored the attitudes, perceptions, and use of podcasting as reported by instructors and students at a large Midwestern university. We examined the results of an online survey focusing specifically on items related to teaching and learning. Findings suggest that students use podcast materials largely for reviewing concepts and issues raised in lectures that they previously attended. While instructors and students agree that podcasts help students learn, students are less sure about podcasts improving instructors' teaching. We argue that podcasts can help instructors change face-to-face instruction from traditional didactic lectures to more constructivist learning practices.