Homework: Evaluate an Online Resource for appropriate classroom application.

During class, we discussed the use of Podcasts for listening practice.  There are innumerable podcasts available, but I chose to review one I frequently listen to and am familiar with: RadioLab.  I've often listened and thought that it would be great to share with my students, specifically because of the subject matter discussed.  It would be especially adaptable to an EAP course focusing on the physical and biological sciences.  For instance, one recent episode discussed the difference between the "universe" and the "multiverse."  These are terms applicable to the study of astronomy, physics, or physical science.  The podcasts also mix characteristics of casual speech with features of scientific discourse.  The content is thought provoking and interesting, and they take difficult scientific concepts and break them down into easily understandable examples.  Thus, you could approach the listenings from both a bottom-up and top-down approach.  Some of the podcasts are extended in nature, up to an hour long, and others are relatively short, about 10-15 minutes.  They could act as stand-ins for authentic lectures (by the most interesting of professors, of course).  They could be used for extensive listening practice.  Alternatively, these could be easily broken down and played in shorter chunks.  You can access them on both PC's and Mac's.  They are easily downloadable, and if students had the appropriate technology, could download them and listen as homework. Or a computer lab could be used for this purpose.

The website itself was fairly simple to negotiate, and many of the episodes are supplemented by readings and videos.  Since it is a publicly supported radio show, there are no distracting ads on the website, only links to supplementary info or related content.  For students familiar with website negotiation, little extra support would need to be given other than getting acquainted with the site and understanding where to locate the episodes.  The website itself links you to the listenings, or you can subscribe to the free, weekly podcast.

I would recommend this site only for advanced students, as the language is often complex, uses advanced vocabulary, colloquial and "creative" English terms.  However, advanced English learners may be interested in the many episodes they have about language, as will English teachers.  One recent episode I listened to talked about the connection between music and language, and how Chinese speakers are quite significantly more likely to have perfect pitch than English speakers (potentially because recognizing tones in the Chinese language crosses over to recognizing musical notes or tones as well).

Teachers, however, may find it time consuming to preview and adapt the content for the purposes of their class.  Once again, this would only be recommended for advanced learners in classes geared towards careers or study in the sciences.

Take a look (or a listen)!  It's fun!

http://www.radiolab.org/