Exploring the Potential for Podcasting to Deliver Ubiquitous Learning in Higher Education

PODCASTING facilitates the timely delivery of digital audio content such as MP3 files to a user's desktop, as it becomes available. The authors believe it holds tremendous potential as a low-cost, low-barrier tool for mobile ubiquitous learning, given the large uptake of portable music players. This paper explores some of the possibilities for enhancing university teaching and learning, although the intention is not to replace traditional, face-to-face classes. In particular, the paper describes a project involving an investigation into podcasting preclass listening material as a strategy for addressing students' preconceptions and anxiety to better prepare them for effective face-to-face learning. A group of undergraduate students studying a first year information technology subject at an Australian university were the main participants in a survey and focus group used to gather data to guide plans for a trial implementation planned for the following semester.