Podcasts

 Podcasts

If you’re anything like me, your schedule is packed full on the daily, so taking the time to read informative articles (even though you want to) is low on the totem pole.  What if I told you there was a simple solution?  Podcasts are the perfect way to learn without having to drop everything else; you can simply multitask!  Personally, I listen to Podcasts almost every day during my morning and/or afternoon commute to work.  Over the years, podcasts have grown exponentially in popularity to the point where people are more likely to listen to a podcast than read a blog on the same topic.  There’s a podcast for nearly any topic or interest.  Some are free, while others charge their listeners.  

In the field of education and in the library, the usage of podcasts has exploded as well.   I find that podcasts are a great way to get information and make learning fun for those who are auditory learners.  Podcasts can be a great tool to utilize in the library.  Perhaps you can do a weekly episode on different genres and highlight titles in the genre.  They could be incorporated in book clubs as well.  Making a podcast may sound intimidating, but it’s not that difficult.  It’s as simple as having a microphone and tool to record with.  There are various podcast hosting sites out there to look into.  Check out this article for details on many of these hosting sites.  For the purpose of this article, I explored Podbean, Audioboom, and Audacity.  Each had their own strengths and weaknesses, which I cover below, but ultimately my peers and I created a podcast using Podbean.  Since we could not find a podcast hosting site that allows multiple hosts simultaneously for free, we went with Podbean, because their app was easy-to-use when combining separate clips into one podcast episode.   

To listen to my group’s podcast on genrefication, click here.       

Podbean 

• PRO: Visually-appealing 

• PRO: User-friendly interface

• PRO: Allows multiple users on a podcast at a time (for a fee)

• PRO: Has an app

• PRO: Allows combining of sound clips

• PRO: Allows editing

• PRO: Podcasts can be files or URL links

• CON: System crashes often, so reliability is questionable

• CON: Only offers episode stats

• CON: A little pricier than competitors

Audioboom 

• PRO: Allows multiple users on a podcast at a time (for a fee)

• PRO: Allows distribution on multiple platforms

• PRO: Allows for website integration

• PRO: Embedded player

• PRO: Includes advanced analytics/statistics

• PRO: Allows you to monetize your podcast or gain sponsorships   

• PRO: Allows combining of sound clips and editing

• PRO: Simple platform design

• CON: No app

• CON: Limit of 5 episodes per month

• CON: No free account; prices start at $9.99 a month

Audacity  

• PRO: Free

• PRO: Good for beginners 

• PRO: Can convert files into different formats

• PRO: Allows editing

• PRO: Allows multiple sound layers to be added at once (voice and sound effects, for example)

• PRO: Wide user base = free tutorials 

• CON: Interface is outdated

• CON: No publishing abilities; must be converted, then uploaded to a hosting site

• CON: Lacks user-friendly industry requirements 

• CON: Professional looking interface makes it intimidating to use

  

I think libraries can use this tool to promote programs, give book talks, or have a round table discussion with students about books they are currently reading or anticipating.  This is a great way to get kids excited and can be downloaded to their lovely phones they always want to have out.  What can be tricky with Podcasts is getting listeners and students to know when new podcasts have been uploaded and making sure students are taught how to access recordings.  That being said, this tool is a great way to deliver information in a creative way.  I can't wait to use this tool in my own library!

If you are interested in listening to some educational podcasts, check out this thorough article that covers 40 of the best ones out there.  Here are some of my personal favorite podcasts as well:

1. If you love Ted Talks, check out Ted Talks Daily. 

2. If you want to explore what it means to be human, check out On Being.  

3. If you’re fascinated with how the brain works, check out Brain Science. 

4. If you’re a history buff, check out Hardcore History.