e-learning - future of education?: Podcasting

What is podcasting?
Podcasting is the method of distributing multimedia files, such as audio programs or music, videos, over the Internet (using either the RSS or Atom syndication formats), for playback on mobile devices and personal computers. Detailed definition you can find as usually on wikipedia.

How can it be usefull for e-learning?
Podcasting can be use to distribute all learning materials including school lessons in the form of voice recording of the lecture or perfectly and professional prepared lessons that my be viewed or listened on mobile devices. Podcasting has been developed because of the increasing popularity of mp3/ipod players. Short school lessons, especially e.g. history or other (that do not require sophisticated explanations with video tools) maybe downloaded to mp3 players and be listened (eg. on the way to school :). The usefulness of having such possibility to learners is out of the question.

Podcasting may be/is also use at professional trainings, broadcasts from conferences, meetings and many other events.

How to make your own podcast?
Podcasting is easy! It can be done by everybody using simplest audio or audio and video tools! (computer headphones with microphone, mobile phone, mp3 players with microphone). E-learning professional postcast require more professional tools. Then it may be prepared and sell via internet or delivered to textbooks as a supporting materials.

Podcasts are also easy to share! It is enough to publish it (usually in mp3 format) somewhere in the internet. Many podcasting services offer some space for your own podcasts. This will help your postcast be available to broad audience. Publishers may deliver podcasts to defined audience (that for instance, that have been bought textbook). It may be done by delivering with textbook special codes that allow to download podcast form company’s web page. Such podcast my become a interesting marketing tool and may increase product value.

This post in podcast form!
download mp3 file - not in function yet
listen this post - not in function yet

Helpfull links - general links