What research is suggesting about podcasts and evaluation...

One study conducted at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry showed that podcasting audio recordings of lectures provided a better technology solution for the students' needs than the originally student-requested video recordings. What is relevant to our iPod LC is that formative evaluation was used throughout the study to rule out other less beneficial, more costly, and time-consuming alternative methods of delivery. I think as we continue to delve into the world of podcasting within professional development, a huge emphasis will need to be placed on the formative evaluation of the podcasts in relation to their utilization by our end users. This will allow us to determine the changes and improvements needed before we invest alot of time and energy into something that may not meet the needs of our clients. The University of Michigan shared 2 important lessons that can be applied to most learning technology projects such as ours: 1) the importance of actively involving the client, and 2) the importance of using proven instructional design and formative evaluation techniques.