IMPALA Informal Mobile Podcasting and Learning Adaptation

The Background and The Rationale

GEES disciplines encompass learning about the world’s physical, natural, human and cultural aspects. They offer test-beds for research and development of IMPALA’s podcast approaches. Students in these disciplines learn in ‘multiple learning spaces’: factual and conceptual learning in classrooms, practical learning in laboratories, ICT-based learning in geographical information sciences, and guided field exploration. Varied learning activities occurring in these locations must knit together so that students can map their learning in one space onto their learning in another space.

GEES practitioners want flexible mobile technologies like podcasting that can be used across learning spaces. Podcasts can ensure continuity and link learning spaces. Simple pedagogic models (e.g., summary information delivery), help learners to engage with one learning space whilst in another. For example, a commentary on a landform is more effective if the commentary (usually delivered in the classroom) is podcast to students in the field. Similarly, podcasting summary information on geospatial data analysis to students collecting GPS data in the field ensures that students are aware of requirements of data being collected, and promotes quality in students’ data collection. More complex pedagogic models enhance the linking of learning spaces. Creation of digital storyboards may encourage students to link theories learnt in classrooms with field examples, and promote student collaboration. GEES practitioners want to try podcasts for tackling ‘threshold concepts’ and ‘troublesome knowledge’, to give students feedback, and to modify the curriculum and increase effective contact time with students.