I had not thought of using Podcasts at all in my classroom basically because I knew nothing about podcasts. I think it could very beneficial for students to hear themselves as they read. They could potentially be very motivated to improve their reading when they hear themselves. They know what good reading is when they hear it but when they are reading to themselves their focus is on decoding the words and not on how they sound. For the higher level readers I think it could improve their fluency, inflection and expression. They will have to think about what they are reading in order to add expression. The lower level readers are not aware of how they sound and when they hear themselves they might be motivated to practice reading more. I also think it would allow relatives living in farther areas to listen to the students if access is allowed.
The vodcasts could be fun for gifted students to use to "show off" their knowledge in their chosen area of interest.
A New Year has Started!
2 years ago
Great reflection, you are making connections to the curriculum and discovering ways in which these new tools can allow you to have a potentially greater impact on your students. Wouldn't it be awesome to send digital christmas cards or messages to distant relatives. The kids and family members would eat it up!
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with your thoughts on Podcasting. It just seems like a natural fit with your curriculum. This kind of learning is great for kids if you give them the opportunity to listen to themselves and then choose to start over if they'd like. That way, they would be more aware of their mistakes and strenghts and have the opportunity to turn in a podcast that shows their learning and best work.
ReplyDeleteThant's why kids love to play video games - they can fail and fail and fail, and they can keep going until they get it right. They can apply the same love of learning to reading that way.
Great reflection!