Podcasting, student learning and expectations

Belinda Tynan
Centre for Teaching and Learning
University of New England

Stephen Colbran
School of Law
University of New England

This paper presents preliminary results of a trial of podcasting in six law units involving 1244 students during semester 1, 2006. The data revealed a rapid uptake and acceptance of podcasting with few difficulties. The vast majority of students perceived podcasting as having excellent value, particularly lectures and to a lesser extent, tutorials. Podcasting altered study habits, with students spending more time reading primary materials, and a minority of students spending time transcribing podcasts. Podcasts did not reduce participation on WebCT discussion forums. Podcasts were expected by students to be delivered within three days, with students prepared to accept lengthier downloads for improved quality. The paper discusses the main advantages and disadvantages of podcasting as revealed by student users. There is no doubt that audio podcasting has now become an essential requirement for teaching tertiary students within the law units. The challenge will be for UNE to create workflows to meet the expectations of students as to quality and service delivery.

Keywords: podcast, online learning, mLearning