Power Up with Podcasts

While working with teachers for one-on-one trainings, or stopping by to fix a technology issue, I keep hearing similar comments. They go something like, "I like that we have technology in the classroom, but it's just so overwhelming. I don't really know what to do with it, or where to start."

I find that a great place to start is with podcasts. Depending on who you follow, podcasts can teach you how to use technology or give you ideas on creative ways to use technology in the classroom.

Podcasts are like radio talk shows, but unlike random shows you may come across on your radio, you can subscribe to podcasts that cover the topics you are most interested in. Most podcasts can be found and played online, but the best way to listen to podcasts is on your mobile device. By having it on your phone you can listen to the podcast whenever and where ever you are.

To start listening to podcasts you will need to get a podcast app. Both Apple and Google have free podcast apps so it doesn't matter if you have an iPhone or Android device.

Here are a few podcast apps that should get you started.

• Apple Podcast (iPhone)
• Google Podcast (Android) 
• Stitcher (iPhone & Android)
• TuneIn Radio (iPhone & Android)
• Spotify (iPhone & Android)

Once you have the app, you can start searching for topics in which you are interested. Try searching for things like, "Ed Tech" or "Teaching".  You will be amazed at how many shows will come up.

Listen to a few and if you like them click the subscribe button (sometimes it's called follow) and every time a new show is uploaded you will see it in your app.

Here are a few shows that I follow to get you started.

• The Shake Up Learning Show
• Making Better Teachers 
• The Cult of Pedagogy 
• 10 Minute Teacher Podcast

Leave a comment below with podcasts that you enjoy listening to.