I took a refresher course in the very basics of podcasting today at the TLA. Of course, I am hooked on the idea of getting all sorts of fabulous equipment to really have a high tech podcast production center. Right now, I think that is getting a little ahead of myself! To be honest, I think that what we have right now in the lab (i.e. our eMacs) has just the right equipment for guiding students in making basic “podcasts.” To do podcasts for the school, we will definitely need a bit more. Right now, I think a Snowball (microphone that is both uni and omni-directional) will be the best bet for reasonable funds with good functionality. Now the only question is, how can podcasts help promote Downtown Elementary?

• Informational: Interviews with administrators and faculty detailing our Optional Program, as well as other programs and opportunities our school has
• Community Involvement: Interviews with parents and community members–informational interviews (such as science, social studies, or math topics with parents or other professionals); motivational interviews (with positive messages or tips for students); literature focus (parents or community members reading excerpts from favorite children’s books)
• Student spotlights: Featured students read an excerpt from their favorite book
• Teacher spotlights: Interviews with teachers, or teachers reading from their favorite books
• Tips: Homework and school work strategies for success

Podcasting seems to be a great medium for communicating with not only students and parents at home, but with the community. Podcasts from the school could possibly be made ready for download, which would be a bonus. I will continue to brainstorm this summer and see if a more organized plan can be created. Perhaps once the school year starts, teachers, parents, and community members who are interested in making Downtown very Web 2.0 savvy can help with planning and production.