Podcasts from EDM 310

The first podcast I listened to was “Burp Back Education: How It Can Be Eliminated” by Nikki Hunter, Christi Turner and Tiffany Blocker. They begin by explaining “burp back” education and what that means. This is a technique that teachers have used for years in the classroom. The teacher lectures or uses handouts for students to basically memorize and then later be tested on this material. It has been shown through research that students do not retain this information for very long. It is stored in short term memory and is soon forgotten after being tested. Their suggestions that are discussed are using alternative ways of presenting the information through games or other interactive activities. Using different speakers in the classroom is also suggested. These are ways that students can focus in on what is being taught instead of just memorizing the information. Most teachers are aware that this is not the best way to teach, however, with the growing pressure of standardized testing; sometimes there is not enough time to use the alternative methods which are more time consuming.

The second podcast I listened to was ACCESS Distance Learning: A Work in Progress by Henryetta Alexander, April Jones and Ashley Reed. They begin by explaining What ACCESS which is a website that connects all Alabama high school statewide. This is a way for students to be able to take courses that are not available at their school because of the lack of certified teachers. These are courses for advanced students who are seeking courses in dual enrollment and advanced placement. This is one way of getting 9th grade students on the college track and helping them stay there. This also provides a way for students to better individualize their education. Students do not need to feel limited because there school does not offer what they need for college. ACCESS has also added courses for remedial students. These students can take a basic reading class and not feel pressure from a teacher or other students. This can help these students “catch up.”

Both of these podcasts were well done. The students researched their topics and seemed very knowledgeable. They were interesting and kept my attention while listening. I did notice that there were some pauses that probably could have been avoided and the use of “um” and “and um.” When recording a podcast, I do not even think you are aware of how many times this can happen. Also making sure you are using a conversational tone instead of sounding like you are reading off the page. The only other suggestion I could make would be to be careful about pronouncing certain words such as “thing” sounding like “thang.” Overall, I think both podcasts were good.