PODCasting: My Definition

WOW! How can I explain how much I love this idea??? I used to fantasize about a way to teach online, even having "chat tutorials" where I would open an online chat time during certain hours. The students could ask their questions in an open window and I would respond to each of them before the chat tutorial time was closed. This was especially helpful during short turn-around assignments where they had something at stake but couldn't attend a traditional tutorial due to athletics, arts, or family committments. Parents really liked it because they could 'chat' with me as well, asking for more explanation of a topic or concept so that they could continue helping their student as we spoke online. This also kept me from having to give my personal phone number out while making me available during a controlled time. I see podcasts as having the ability to allow me to teach, be put on pause, and returned to during these essential learning times for the students/parents at home. This would be amazing for kiddos who are home sick or in the hospital as well...and so many of our students travel at non-traditional times during the school year that I think that this would be a great way for them to keep up. Between the podcast and the downloadable documents available on my website, I think that this is revolutionary for my teaching practice. So, what is my definition? It's my virtual self's ability to teach my students, should they be in Switzerland, Egypt, Hawaii, or in their own home with their parents. Yes, it's personal and on-demand, but it's also a way for excuses to dissipate for those homes that have internet access. Libraries also have free internet access, as do apartment complex social rooms/business centers, which also have printers and faxes. Heck, they can download the information onto their cellphones!

So, when can we send their progress reports and report cards to their parents' cellphones?

V