Podcasting, Video and Screencasting, & Live Streaming

The things we can do with technology today is incredible and only continues to get better.  Of course, the kids we will teach will have grown up around all of this technology and will be eager to use it in class.  So, why not let them?  There are many great ways to use technology in class for educational purposes such as: podcasting, video and screencasting, and live streaming.  Possibilities are endless when it comes to assignments and projects using these different forms of multimedia streaming.  Depending on the age group, you can choose which you use and how you use it.  Podcasting could be used for the weekly newsletter, recap of the class, helpful study tools, informative topics, or just something you are interested in.  These would be easy for you or your students to create.  Videos are also a great way to get your students involved, though this process can be very long.  You can create a video on almost anything and for almost anything as far as projects and assignments go; videos are typically better for older students but can definitely be used by younger students with some assistance.  Screencasting is a great way to do a flipped lesson, where you can listen and see the lecture before class.  This could also be used to show students how to do tricky things on the computer or simple where to find something on the internet.  This uses both visual and audio to help increase retention.  Students could also use this to demonstrate how do something on the computer or whatever their assignment may be.  Live streaming is similar to video, except it doesn't need to be as planned.  You can use live streaming in your classroom so that parents and colleagues can see how or what you are teaching, watch a presentation from across the world, or just see something that interests you.  There are many ways you can easily incorporate these into your lessons and students love to work with technology.  As new gadgets and apps come out we must use them to our advantage as a way to enhance our teaching.  Like I said, between you, your students, and colleagues the possibilities for using these tools is endless.  When using these tools remember to try them out yourself before unleashing it on your students so you understand what they will be using.  Good luck!