Week 3 Podcast: The new listening tool.

The article “Integrating CALL into the classroom: the role of podcasting in an ESL listening strategies course” was really interesting to me because it talks about a very uncommon tool to have in the listening classes. This is called “Podcast” which allows students with access to an MP3 player or a computer to subscribe to audio or visual content that is automatically delivered over a network, so that, users can download the audio or the material that they want to listen to.

Educational podcast are becoming more popular because it allows audio and video streaming to lots of students. The good thing about it, is that students can review the material once and again until the content is clear while they learn and improve their English skills. In fact, teachers need to be trained and prepared to give the right material that can be applied in the curriculum. Moreover, whenever we use a book or a pre-edited audio, students are limited to learn a specific vocabulary. Nevertheless, podcast can increase information on specific aspects of the language such as idiomatic expressions or grammatical constructions allowing students to face the real English world.

As a conclusion, podcasting usage in listening courses can make the difference. In addition, teachers must choose the right tools and materials and take advantage of them.