Podcasting
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[edit] Podcasting
[edit] A Definition:
A PODCAST is an audio or video file intended for internet distribution - referred to as PODCASTING. Most podcasts are done in a broadcast style, with audio commentary. For example, even a music podcast will typically have an announcer explain the upcoming song before it is played. In this way, podcasts are more like radio, including talk radio, recordings.
[edit] Who Owns It?
No one owns podcasting. Various software vendors offer systems for distributing podcasts. Many of these systems are weblog-based methods of distributing podcasts which use RSS-based subscriptions to provide additional episodes.
Each podcast is owned by the person or organization that created it, according to standard copyright law. However, at this point, almost all podcasts are freely distributed without cost.
Due to the popularity of the Apple iPod, the iTunes Music Store is one of the most well-known places on the Internet to download podcasts. While Apple owns this particular distribution system, all podcasts are hosted by Apple and distributed to the public free of charge. Apple has also created an academic distribution system for universities called iTunes U.
[edit] What Is It Used For?
Podcasts are used for all kinds of communications: educational, entertainment, promotional. There are a lot of possibilities. You might think of podcasting as a rebranding of good old audio and video files, which is partially true, but it's also a new idea of introducing this type of content with commentary. So at the very least, there's an element of repackaging audio and video into a narrated episode.
[edit] What Are Some Potential Uses at FCCJ?
Many colleges are already using podcasting as a way to archive and distribute classroom lectures. While this is an easy way to make podcasts, it isn't necessarily the ideal use of this new medium. Archiving lectures is useful to both faculty and students, for purposes of review. There is an obvious benefit to students who miss a class session. Some instructors worry podcasting lectures may lower actual attendance. As of yet, there is no body of research to prove or disprove this theory.
These are some other potential uses:
- pre-class prep content
- post-class review
- guest speakers (with permission)
- recordings of campus events
- student orientation
[edit] How Can I Make a Podcast?
There are a few options for creating podcasts.
- Your PC Computer. Free podcasting software is available for download on the Internet, but is not supported at this time by FCCJ. You might try experimenting with some of these free applications if you an intermediate to advanced level computer user. Otherwise, we encourage you to consider the other options available at FCCJ.
- Your Macintosh Computer. Apple includes the iLife suite on all new Macintosh computers. The Garageband application, a component of the iLife suite, is an excellent way to create a podcast. Other podcasting software is available for the Macintosh, some of which is freeware.
- Faculty Resource Centers FRCs are located on each FCCJ campus, and are staffed by helpful and knowledgeable professionals. If you have an idea for a podcast or other media production to support your activities here at FCCJ, you might stop in and talk to your FRC Multimedia Specialist.
- North Campus - Richard Snipes
- South Campus - Lantz Baum
- Kent Campus - Trever Broillar
- Open Campus - David Rosowski
- FCCJ TV Studio. Our Television Studio can assist you in making a high-quality podcast. Especially if you are considering a larger project, it would be a good idea to consult with them on production strategies. Contact Rusty Gardner for more information.
[edit] How do I share my Podcasts?
- Blackboard
- Weblog/Podcast Server
- iTunesU
[edit] Demos, Links And Other Resources:
You can create your own account and get started on our weblog / podcast server right away: http://stream.fccj.edu/
If you are interested in learning more about creating podcasts at FCCJ, consider contacting your campus Faculty Resource Center or Mitchell Chin (Emergent Technologies).
