"Podcast" is a term coined from the words "iPod" and "broadcast" to describe audio or video files that can be played on personal computers and portable media players (such as the iPod). One misconception many have is that the user needs an iPod to play a podcast. Podcasts can be delivered on Web pages, and accessed through iTunes U, iTunes, Windows Media Player or other digital media applications. (See more about delivery methods).
Audio and video content has long been available for download over the Web since the advent of the internet. The terms "podcast" and "podcasting" came into popular consciousness with the use of syndication feeds, allowing the user to subscribe to audio or video content that automatically downloads to their digital media application.
Getting Started with Podcasting
The best way to get started with your podcast project is to contact Academic Computing through John Hemenway or Corrine Haverinen to discuss your project, obtain advice on the best approach, and enlist help as needed.
Following is an outline of the process with links to various pages with more information on the choices you will be making, tips for better podcast creation and tutorials to help guide you.
Analyze the content you want to deliver. Look over the kinds of podcasts listed below on this page to choose what type of podcast you want to create.
Audio only Connect a microphone to a computer and record audio content. Save as an .mp3 file. Software choices: Audacity, GarageBand, QuickTime Pro Hardware needed: built-in microphone, USB mic, or other mic with USB adapter Example
Enhanced Audio An Enhanced Podcast is an audio podcast with images or chapter markers added. Connect a microphone to a computer and record audio content. Add still images using the podcast track in GarageBand. Save out as an Enhanced Podcast. Software choices: GarageBand Hardware needed: built-in microphone, USB mic, or other mic with USB adapter
Video lecture Record video of a lecture directly on a computer with an attached camera, for a talking-head style presentation. Software choices: iMovie, QuickTime Pro Hardware needed: built-in camera or external video camera that connects to computer with FireWire (such at the Apple iSight camera) Example
Video slideshow Record audio narration and video of a PowerPoint or Keynote presentation. Software choices: ProfCast, Snapz Pro, or Camtasia Hardware needed: built-in microphone, USB mic, or other mic with USB adapter Example
Video captured from a computer screen Record video of a defined area of a computer screen. This method is best for showing how to use computer programs, or to instruct about how to do tasks on a computer. Software choices: Snapz Pro, Camtasia Hardware needed: built-in microphone, USB mic, or other mic with USB adapter Example
The best way to get started with your podcast project is to contact Academic Computing through 