Abstract
The emergence of user-friendly technologies has made podcasting an accessible learning tool in undergraduate teaching. In a geomorphology course, student-produced podcasts were used as part of the assessment in 2008–2010. Student groups constructed radio shows aimed at a general audience to interpret and communicate geomorphological data within the context of relevant social and environmental issues. Questionnaire results suggest that the novel format engaged students, and promoted group working, IT, language and oral communication skills, and a deeper understanding of the context of geomorphic data. For teachers, podcasting technology offers efficient teaching of oral communication, with opportunities for distance and self-directed learning.
Acknowledgements
David Harrison provided IT support and advice to students and staff involved in the project. Constructive comments from Ian Cook and three anonymous reviewers improved the paper. This project was supported by a UK Higher Education Funding Council Small Projects grant through the Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences Subject Centre, and by a Northumbria University Applauding and Promoting Teaching Award.