A podcast is an audio file uploaded to the Internet where others can download and listen to on their personal media player or computer. Professional podcasts are a wonderful e-option to enhance lessons. They are available online for almost every subject. Websites like The Education Podcasting Network (http://www.epnweb.org) bring together podcasts for teachers to use in their lessons. Teachers can create their own podcast lessons, which students can review at their own pace. This allows students to listen to lessons or review for tests as they walk to school, while on a trip with their family, or before they go to bed. While these audio lessons should not replace traditional studying methods, they can be another useful learning tool for students.

Teachers and students can create podcasts with podcasting software. These programs allow users to record, cut, copy, mix, splice, and alter pitch. Mac users have access to a rich program called Garage Band, which allows users to create and download podcasts. PC users can download Audacity (http://audacity.souceforge.net), a free software program that allows them to record and edit sounds. This open-source software is easy to use and works on most operating systems. Every few weeks, I assign two students to create a podcast about our class, school, and community. Even though I ask students to work on the podcast during recess, I always get plenty of volunteers. Once they are chosen, the two students write out a three-minute script and practice working with the software and microphone. When they feel confident, they create, edit, and upload their podcast. My class is always eager to hear the latest podcast, and it is a great boost to the confidence of the students who create it.