Podcasts, Voicethreads and Many Possibilities...

When I first started to think about the specific use of podcasts in the classroom, I will admit I was sceptical. I thought, "ok sure, it is an interactive tool to explore".  I still do not think that "podcasts" specifically are the most important tool to be used in the classroom.  Simple voice recordings can be very useful for students that would be less inclined to speak in front of the class.  They can also be an additional way to experiment with "mantle of the expert", or "historical interviews".  I think the idea of podcasts could be of most use for students that may have trouble reading.  The majority of middle school aged kids have ipods or some sort of mp3 device.  What better way to support a students reading then getting them to download an audio book to follow along when their reading.  Also, this helps reduce anxiety they may have about their reading because they will blend in with every other student who has ear phones in their ears.  Another idea that may be a great creative activity would be to have a school radio station that uses podcasts to share the media through a school website or alternate source.  Lastly, podcasts/audio threads can be very useful for students learning english as a second language.  Using Itunes, I found a plethora of language support podcasts that are all free- ex: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/english-as-second-language/id75908431.  This particular podcast deals with hints on innuendos in english and runs though a scenario, then follows with an explanation.  It is for a more advanced english speaker but is a good example of what is available.  Overall, I personally see more use of podcasts and voice audio from the creation side as far as teaching and using within a classroom.  Listening to podcasts is more beneficial to an individual listener who uses them to supplement their reading.