Journal #10

Jennifer Dorman, a 9th grade teacher in Pennsylvania, had her students create podcasts for pivotal moments in and around WWII. She did this not only because it was a hands-on experience for her students, but it also moved away from the traditional paper-based writing assignments. Students were able to work together and come up with various creative ideas. Dorman provided a raw foundation for her students and from there they were allowed to use their imagination to create the finished product. She says she has also used podcasts as a form of a study guide to steer students away from the dreaded studying of final exams. By having them create podcasts, they can review them before an exam to help them remember important concepts. Not only does she incorporate technology in a creative way, but she has students work together therefore allowing everyone to provide input into the finished product. This is also a great way to do lesson plans. Rather than having students hear a teacher lecture about topics in social studies for example, students can watch their podcasts and learn all about important events during WWII. Also, by providing students with only a raw foundation, students must be responsible for finding outside resources that will help with their podcast. In this way, they are learning information on the topic, educating themselves in a fun and creative way.

How are podcasts beneficial to students?
By having students create these podcasts, they are learning about important facts in history but doing it in a fun way. They have to research the topic to find information they include in their podcast, but they almost become part of that moment in history when they re-create various events. Students are also able to carry this information with them in later years since it is something they did information on. Normally when a teacher gives lesson, the information isn't retained. However, when students must research the information on their own and then creating a setting from that event, they are more likely to retain information beneficial to them.

Should teachers use podcasts in the classroom?
Podcasts shouldn't be a requirement for the classroom, but it should be strongly encouraged. Students will be much more appreciative of learning in a way they can express their creativity, and teachers don't have to do the boring paper-based method of learning. Teachers should be exposed to podcasts and encourage students to create them to help with their learning.

Shein, E (2008). Making history. T.H.E. Journal, Retrieved 2008, from http://www.thejournal.com/articles/23394_5