This document outlines how a module podcast in a learning management system can be used to connect students to real world experiences, reflect on peer and self-performance, and review assignment briefings. It describes how the podcast provides opportunities for students to receive feedback, highlight key concepts, and show their work. The podcast also allows access to expert voices from careers staff, public podcasts, and conferences to supplement course material and exam preparation in an authentic way. In conclusion, educational podcasting extends and complements classroom learning through access to various voices and connections to professional and current events.

1. A Non-Structured Approachto Using a Module Podcast Andrew Middleton

2. Outline Description of how the module podcast in the Blackboard VLE allows the class to: Connect to real world experience and expertise Reflect on their performance and the ideas of their peers Review assignment briefings Receive feedback Highlight key concepts Show their work

3. Opportunity An interview with a friend about their experience of being broadcast on the Web without permission Recording of the class discussion that followed

4. Practice in making commitment to ideas based on independent study Recording of a class discussion following independent research and the viewing of a video in class

5. Audio assignment brief – more meaningful Generic audio feedback recorded by tutor team and posted immediately to podcast following last presentation Extract from the Guardian’s podcast that week that was relevant to their current topic

6. Access to expert voices: Careers staff memberinformed the student assignment of professionalisation and online identity. Recorded at short notice. Extract from US podcast that dealt with current topic (luck!)

7. Audio Revision Notes: 5 key concept points > Guidance on how to respond > 5 points repeatedGuarantee that all students have had key concepts from key topics presented to them in preparation for exam following an experiential high activity approach

8. Currency and authenticity: Extract from feature on BBC Radio 4 Today programme from that week Link to a recording made at a conference session I attended that covered the student topic

9. Feeding back and feeding forward Student group presentations

10. Conclusion Educational podcasting extends the learning environment in time and space It complements and echoes classroom activity Access to tutor, student, expert and public voices Connects to professional voices, real world events Highlights and emphasises key points Opportunistic, flexible and very easy to do!