We're getting close to the end of the year, which means it is time for my annual email about podcasts. Every year, NPR hosts a Student Podcast Challenge. They invite students from grades 5-12 to submit a podcast on just about anything - as long as it is between 3-8 minutes. Entries can be submitted beginning in January and going through March or April. But now is the perfect time to start thinking about how you might be able to use podcasts in your curriculum!
A podcast is essentially a radio show. Most of the time it is episodic and listeners can subscribe to get the newest episodes. They can be streamed or downloaded for easy listening on the go. I took a long time to get into podcasts, but then I found one that I love. As a 90s kid, I grew up watching and loving Boy Meets World. Three of the stars from the show created a podcast where they interview people related to the show (other actors, crew, etc.) and recap each episode. It has been so much fun to listen to. I am totally hooked. I bet many of your students are hooked on their own favorite podcast too and would jump at the idea of creating one of their own.
Here in the library, we have access to an online collaborative audio recording program called Soundtrap. Podcasts can be recorded in many ways, but Soundtrap is a tool that is designed specifically for audio recording and can include original music. There have been a few classes in the last two years that have used this tool and enjoyed it. We would love to have more classes explore this creative medium and we are happy to help you develop ideas and topics and walk your classes through the technical elements. It is easy to come up with podcast ideas for English, Social Studies, and World Language, but I bet we could get creative with those STEAM classes too...I like a good challenge. :)
If you're interested, reach out to set up a time to work with me to develop ideas. I would love to get some kids submitting to the NPR challenge this year!!
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