“A Great and Engaging Option”: Four Ways to Use Podcasts to Enhance Learning

Podcasts are a popular form of media, and there is increased interest in using podcasts as a teaching tool. Still, it is not always obvious how instructors should use podcasts in class and the best ways to do so. Based on the literature, our research on podcasts as pedagogical tools, and our own experiences, we distinguish four modes of incorporating podcasts into sociology courses: (1) as in-class activities, (2) as assigned “readings,” (3) as part of a larger assignment, and (4) as a student-produced end product. We review each of these modes of using podcasts in sociology classes, sharing examples and best practices. We conclude with best practices for “using podcasts” in Sociology courses regardless of format. We present our suggestions in a table format for easy reference, offering a framework of “Four Ways to Use Podcasts to Enhance Learning.”