Subscribing to podcasts

Classroom applications

Podcasts are regularly updated programs offered by producers; when you subscribe to them using the URL provided by the programmer, iTunes will automatically download new episodes that you can watch or listen to on your computer or sync to your iPod.  A wide range of podcasts are available for free.  Media outlets worldwide, including public radio stations, newspapers and television networks have news and cultural programming available as podcasts that supplement their regular broadcasts and printed offerings.  Many more are produced by individuals, faculty or students in different parts of the world; most podcast episodes are audio files, but a growing number include video, images, or web links.  In addition to learning about podcasts directly from their creators, you may wish to browse podcast directories like the one in the iTunes store for material that can supplement class lectures, discussions or assignments.

Getting started

  • Make sure you have the most recent version of iTunes installed on your computer and that your iPod software is up to date.
  • Post URLs for relevant podcasts in your course Blackboard site.
  • (Duke instructors) Consult Perkins Library subject librarians for assistance with locating podcasts in your discipline.

Step by step instructions