BWP: Chapter 8

Prior to this reading, I had heard of podcasts but I wasn't entirely sure how they worked or what their purpose was. This chapter helped me see the benefits of using this technology within the classroom. Especially for those with learning impairments or those who are more auditory learners, it would be a great tool to implement to accommodate these types of students. Screencasting is great because in an age where technology is playing an increasingly popular role within the schools, you are able to show students just what to do. I can see screencasting being used in such a way that allows my students to watch the screencast on a project and then come see me if they need any additional help. I feel that this also goes along the line of having the students take responsibility for their education; they are taught something and if they feel that they still don't understand, it is up to them to seek out the teacher's help. I feel that the teacher is still teaching, but instead of wasting time going over things that a screencast could cover, students are asking questions about things they genuinely don't understand. As far as live streaming goes, I can see how it can give students a very hands on learning experience. However, the teacher who filmed his class everyday... I don't think I would ever do something like that. I feel that too often both adults and children alike try to put on a show when they know someone could be closely watching them (for better or worse, I suppose) but all the same, I think it is something I would use as an educational tool, but not instill it in my classroom the way some other teachers have.

One of the core things I anticipate doing when I'm a future teacher as a result of this reading is pay attention to what my individual students need to better their learning. Some might need a podcast, while others won't care for it at all, and that's okay. Other students might really put forth their best work knowing it will be published (video casting) while others might want to watch something and then have the opportunity to actively engage in a discussion about the topic. I feel that to be the best teacher I can, I need to have each student try each of these options for a period of time and then allow them to pick what works best for them. They could switch it up every assignment or they might prefer to stick with one way of doing things; but the important thing is that it is a decision they made that they benefit the most from.