Podcasts are audio files (often with additional images or video) that are delivered over the internet through a subscription-style service. The feature that sets podcasts apart from other types of media is that the files are typically optimized for playing on a portable media device like an iPod. Commercially produced Podcasts cover a wide range of topics and are almost always free to the listener. The Apple iTunes media player along with the iTunes store make it easy to subscribe and download content of interest.

Podcasting is the process of creating media using microphones and software such as Garageband. Students and teachers can easily create their own podcasts for use in the classroom or to publish and share with the world.


View a brief video explanation of podcasting below from CommonCraft:


While pre-created podcasts help reinforce subject area content, allowing students to create their own podcasts gives them the power to publish to an authentic audience.

• To find lots of podcasts for educational use, check out the iTunes store podcast section. Start in the section for Education and branch out from there.
• Apple Computer has several resources to help you learn to use podcasting in the classroom including a video series and several lessons from the Apple Learning Interchange.
• Educator Dan Schmit publishes a regular podcast series called KidCast with great tips and ideas for podcasting educators.
• Pensacola Catholic High has begun to create podcasts that can be heard on our own podcast page.
• Southfield Christian's Podcasting page is a great example of how to podcast with elementary students.