PODCASTS

Continuing the topic of my previous two posts, I would like to mention the integration of podcasts in the teaching-learning process.  There are some recent studies discussing the benefits of using podcasts in EFL classrooms. For instance, some writers suggest using podcasts for improving students’ pronunciation   (Ducate and Lomicka, 2009) or using podcasting as an effective tool for exchanging  information and creating content (Mehring). According to the article written by John Mehring, podcasting is very helpful in motivating the students and engaging them in meaningful activities such as exchanging recopies. I, personally have never used podcasting in my English classes, however, reading those positive comments about the effectiveness of this tool , I would love to integrate this technology in my further teaching process.

First of all, podcasts give learners the chance of listening to authentic material which in itself helps them to develop their speaking and listening skills. There is a huge resource of content which the learners can make use of.  Besides, the learners can choose the topic of their interest such as business, technology, medicine, education.  Personally, I prefer podcasts on Psychology, Art and human brain apart from education.Thus, I think when using podcasts in teaching, it would be a good idea for teachers not to restrict their students choice. The students learn better when they are really motivated and interested in the content.

Besides listening to podcasts, students can be engaged in podcasting. They can create their own podcasts and share with their peers. This can help the learners use the target language as a tool to create new content and exchange information. This will certainly develop not only their language skills, but also creative thinking.