Podcasting: tool for learning

Podcasts are audio files that can be shared via the internet.
When I first learned about podcasting/vidcasting, I was excited about the possibilities that it presented me as a new librarian. I could just imagine the possibilities.

Podcasts can be used for stimulating and sustaining student interest. Most of our students- the net generation- are using ipods and mp3 players. So it makes sense to use this tool for learning.

Podcasts can address the needs and problems of students. Instead of students making individual written book reports, they can create a group podcast/vidcast project where each student can make a different contribution based on their strengths. We teach kids the skills to work collaboratively and at the same time teach writing skills (writing and editing script). Podcasts can also be used to review lessons, record book reviews, record lecture/class discussion (so students who are absent can listen at home). Library lessons, professional development, presentations can also be recorded as podcasts and uploaded to websites or mp3 players.

A podcast is another opportunity to reach out to the community outside the library walls. Once it is uploaded to a library website or an mp3 player, anyone can access it- even from home. It makes information fast and easy to access.

To learn more about podcasting and things to consider when creating podcasts, visit:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Podcasting
http://wiki.creativecommons.org/Podcasting_Legal_Guide

Webpages/websites -Why use them?

We now live in an age where information can easily be accessed by anyone with a computer. Gone are the days when the only sources of knowledge were the teachers and textbooks.
Children are growing up with all these technological advancements and they are very comfortable using them. They are changing in the way they think and learn because of the computer and the internet. As a teacher/librarian I realize that I need to be able to learn how to use these web based tools like webpages, wikis, podcasts/vidcasts,and blogs. I have to be proficient in their use and promote them.

The librarian's job has evolved from just being a "keeper" of books into an information resource specialist. As librarian, my role is to help provide accurate information fast and reach out to the library patrons- students, teachers and the community.

That is why creating a library website is important. A library website will be a way for me to connect to patrons outside the library walls. Patrons do not need to be in the library in order to access the information that they need. The library becomes more accessible to parents and the community. Through a library website, I can provide links to resources and lessons, online catalogs, author websites, online games,and reading lists that will help patrons with homework, projects,and lessons etc. It can be a way to advertise and let the community know about upcoming school and library activities as well as highlight the activities that have already been held. I can include links to portfolios that showcases what students' projects. Teachers rarely have time to go over hand outs from professional development inservices- it would be better to have all theses information in a website.

Having all these information produced, stored and accessed easily is the best reason for having a webpage!

Copyright Laws and the Librarian

Is it okay to show an movie that you own to a class and say that it ties into a lesson? What about including music in your podcast? How about copying materials from a teacher friend from another school? Would you copy a picture downloaded from the internet and put it in a powerpoint presentation? I'm sure most of the time, people would think it is okay as long as it is not for monetary gain and it is educational. How many people at school actually knows that it might be an infringement on copyright laws?

The librarian will play a role in educating everyone at school about copyright laws. It is unfortunate that although people are aware of the laws, they violate them. Not because they do not care, but simple because they really do not have full understanding of what the law exactly means. They are not clear about what is considered "fair use." Lastly, they do not know what they can and can not do under the law

Movies cannot be shown unless the person showing them owned the performance rights, it's as a reward/incentive, or shown on a Friday/bad weather day.
If a material expressly says "Copying is not allowed" then we cannot make copies even if our intentions are good. We will still be liable if we do not get necessary rights or permissions.

Teachers need to familiarize themselves with "fair use". Under fair use if the material is for nonprofit educational use then it is okay to use them. Facts cannot be copyrighted but he creative means by which they are presented may be. So teachers need to exercise good judgment when downloading creative materials like pictures and literature. The less of the material that is used, the better.

Here are sites that contain helpful information regarding copyright for educators:
http://home.earthlink.net/~cnew/research.htm#Introductionhttp://www.copyright.gov/legislation/dmca.pdf http://www.copyright.gov/legislation/dmca.pdf
http://www.templetons.com/brad/copymyths.html