Journal 2 –Using Podcasts to Develop a Global Perspective-NETS I,III,& V

Maguth, B.M., & Elliott, J. (2010, February). Learning and leading with technology. Using Podcasts to Develop a Global Perspective, 37(5), Retrieved from http://www.learningandleading-digital.com/learning_leading/201002#pg1

    Podcasting is an interesting new way to engage students in learning about other cultures. A school in Columbus, Ohio is using digital technologies, like podcasting, to have these students learn about other cultures. It allows students to learn how to use digital technologies, apply what they know, and it allows them to not only interact with one another but with the outside world as well. It allows these students to reach a global audience, all of different cultures and perspectives. These students were assigned a project about a global issue. One group researched  climate change issues ,they did their research and were very surprised about their results. Nations, politicians and scientists all had different views and opinions about this issue. When writing out their script for the project, students were required to include multiple perspectives into their global issue, by doing so these students learned to discuss multiple views. They were able to see the pros and cons of every side of the issues. It opened up all students’ minds and challenged them to think outside the box and see the other side of every issue. When doing their project they also learned how to adjust volume levels, rearrange video clips and even how to include commercial breaks. The last part of the project was putting this video on the internet meaning so many other people of different cultures, besides those in their class, would be able to see it. Students realized they had a responsibility to turn in the best work they could do.

Would I see myself having my students doing something like podcasting? Yes, after reading this article I think my students will benefit greatly from podcasting. Not only will they be learning new technology but they would be having more complex discussions about issues assigned to them. They would have to challenge themselves to think how other nations and cultures might feel about different issues.

Are other schools, besides the school at Ohio, podcasting? I’m wondering about this question because I think it’s a great way to have our students have more complex discussions about our global issues to learn and understand other cultures and about technology as well. All schools should do this, but I know some schools have limited resources so they should find other ways to be able to accomplish these learning goals using other less expensive resources.