What is it?

A podcast is an audio file which is available for download from the internet to your personal music device. Like blogs podcasts are also relatively new to the online world, and were introduced around 2000. Podcasters, or hosts of the podcasts post the clips on the internet with in sites, blogs and forums for individuals to subscribe to using an RSS feed. RSS, or really simple syndication is used to deliver automatic updates of information to people who subscribe. [12]

Podcast, which was taken  from Apple's "iPod" and the word "broadcasting” is "simultaneously a rebellion against the blandness of commercial radio, a demonstration of time shifting for radio, just as TiVo allows time shifting for television, and a celebration of the Internet's power to let individuals offer their own voices to a global audience." [12]

The podcast is a newer medium and therefore has little or no restrictions on content and words and is also free of charge. There are an estimated 6,000 to 7,000 regular podcasters today, publishing audio programs on the Internet.[12]

And the mere spread of topics far surpasses radio who often have similar playlists. Thanks to technologies like Apple’s iTunes the ability to subscribe and update podcast libraries is simple and quick. Another draw to podcasting is the simplicity of creation. Podcasters need only an internet connection, a microphone and a working knowledge of how to publish online.

photo courtsey of apple.com

How is it being used?

Originally podcasts were intended to play off of the radio; allowing podcasters to create their own radio shows, however like many of the online technologies that have emerged podcasters have taken it to a new level of functionality.[1]

Today podcasts on a variety of topics can be found including education, entertainment, tours, updates, and localized news for businesses and individuals alike, and have also started to merge with other internet forums like blogging to create “Blogcasting.” [1]

Can I see an Example?

Podcast Alley offers nmerous podcasts produced by individuals. Topics range from Arts, Business, Games, Food and Drink, Government, Health, Family Religion, and many more.

top of page