Abstract
In its most basic sense, a podcast is an audio file. Some contend that the term should be reserved for serialized content that is available through subscription using RSS, but in common usage, the term is now often used to describe essentially any audio file. Podcasting can be an important part of the development of media literacy, both in terms of creating podcasts and consuming them. Podcasting also provides new ways for faculty to develop asynchronous content for teaching, and it can increase equity by allowing students with a wide range of needs and resources to participate in educational activities.
The 7 Things You Should Know About... series from the EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative (ELI) provides concise information on emerging learning technologies. Each brief focuses on a single technology and describes what it is, where it is going, and why it matters to teaching and learning. Use these briefs for a no-jargon, quick overview of a topic and share them with time-pressed colleagues.
In addition to the 7 Things briefs, you may find other ELI resources useful in addressing teaching, learning, and technology issues at your institution. To learn more, please visit the ELI Resources page.