ePortfolios+and+Podcasts+(Kate)

Podcasts are audio and video files (sometimes known as vodcasts) that exist electronically, allowing for powerful and portable learning tools as well as evidence of prior learning (Boulos, Maramba & Wheeler, 2006:41-42). In the context of an ePortfolios podcasting is a highly valuable tool, which has a wide variety of uses. Podcasts can be beneficial as a teaching/learning tool to allow learning to take place anywhere, anytime, catering for visual and auditory learners as well as allowing students to listen/watch time and time again if need be (Douch, 2009:34). Podcasts may be used to assist a learner to reflect on his/her experiences verbally or using video media (this may be particularly beneficial in the situation of special education. They may also be used to show learning or performance as it takes place to allow students, parents and teachers to see progress, improvement, allow students to revisit learning experiences etc.

This illustration demonstrates the communication paths using these web2.0 tools in a student centred environment (Boulos, Maramba & Wheeler, 2006:46).