Exploring Applications for Using Video Podcasts in Online Learning

The purpose of this paper was to explore research-based applications for using video podcasts in an online learning environment. Five key video podcast uses were examined including administration, instruction, student assignments, feedback, and community. Administrative video podcasts provide course information on areas such as learning goals, lesson plan instructions, course policies, and homework or assignment expectations. Instruction-based video podcasts present short summaries or worked examples for teaching specific concepts. Student assignment video podcasts offer a creative way for students to demonstrate a variety of skills in a wide range of subject areas. Feedback-based video podcasts provide formative guidance to students about their progress or summative evaluation for assignments they complete. Finally, community-based video podcasts help build instructor-to-peer and peer-to-peer connections within an online learning course. Future exploration on the design of video podcasts, regardless of the application used, is discussed. Exploring Applications for Using Video Podcasts in Online Learning