Podcasts

Podcasts

As we move into this new world of technology, we cannot forget the importance of reading. Podcasts and audiobooks have created a whole new way to obtain information or read without actually reading. People are still searching and obtaining information, but in a very different way. I am not a podcast listener and I would much prefer to read so that I can read at my own pace, but I do understand the attractiveness of podcasts. Since I've begun working on my Masters in Library Science, I have had to create several podcasts for my classes. I love the idea of creating podcasts and have even thought about ways to use them within the classroom.

For this assignment, I created accounts with three different podcast tools. I have a MacBook Pro, so I downloaded GarageBand and experimented with the program. In addition, I created accounts with Podbean and SoundCloud. Each program had pros and cons, but the same result was a audio file that could be uploaded.

GarageBand
One of the tools that I used was GarageBand, but this did require a little more effort.  The program requires that you download the program to your computer.  This takes a few minutes and when the program pops up it is like your in a recording studio.  The program allows you to link your iTunes account, so that your music is available to use with the podcast.  I definitely had to play with this program a little more and use the trial and error method.  Once, I was able to get something recorded it was easy to download and share.  I think the most difficult part was figuring out the recording aspect.  I would recommend this program for the more advanced users, which I am not.

SoundCloud
SoundCloud was another tool that I experimented with to create a podcast.  SoundCloud requires that you create an account using an email, Facebook or Twitter.  Once the account is created then you can quickly begin.  You can choose podcasts that you'd like to follow or listen to, as well.  The only issue that I found with this program was I had to search for the recording tab.  I found that if I went to Upload then there was a choice to start a new recording.  There may be a different or easier way, but I did not find it.  Once the recording is complete, then it is very easy to share, download or embed the podcast and use it as needed.  Below is my podcast on audiobooks.  
 


Podbean
The first program that I worked with was Podbean and  I truly loved using this program.  First, I created an account on the web version and then I download the app to my phone.  You can create an account by using an email or signing in with Facebook.  Also, you can select podcasts to listen to or follow.  I was able to use both ways very easily and they both were linked, so all of my recordings showed up in both places.  Learning to record podcasts on Podbean was extremely easy and you can also add music.  Once I was done with my recording, it was very easy to share or download, so that I could use the file as needed.  I found the web version just as easy.  Below is a link to my podcast that was created using Podbean.

 

I would recommend using Podbean and SoundCloud for easy and new to creating podcasts.  I believe that if you are advanced, then GarageBand is probably an amazing tool, but the abilities were lost on me. 

When thinking about how I could use podcasts is my library, I was flooded with a variety of ideas.  I think podcasts could be used to create book talks that could then be placed on a webpage or Facebook page.  Students and parents could quickly hop on and hear a book talk.  I could also attached the podcasts to a QR code and place them around the library.  Another way that podcasts could be used would be to communicate about events or resources that are available within the library.  Again the podcasts could be posted on the web or attached to QR codes.  Also, I think it would be great to have students create podcasts as book recommendation for other students.  A display area could be set up that could focus on recommendations and the podcasts could be integrated some way.  This is another great technology that is allowing librarians to connects with students and parents of all learning styles.