Class Description
In this 11-week Introduction to Podcasting course, students will explore the power of their own voices and stories through the medium of podcasting. Students will learn fundamental audio recording techniques, interview skills, and how to facilitate group discussions while using professional podcast equipment. Through hands-on practice and community engagement, students will develop confidence in public speaking, active listening, and collaborative storytelling. This course emphasizes cultural storytelling and creating content that represents Indigenous perspectives and rural community voices.
Learning Objectives: in this class, students will learn about
- The art of the peer critique and give peer critiques on the progress of student work;
- Opportunities and potential resources on career pathways;
- How to distribute, exhibit, and promote artwork for a variety of audiences.
- The fundamentals of podcasting as a storytelling medium
- Professional interview techniques and conversational skills
- How to operate professional podcast recording equipment safely
- The art of peer critique and constructive feedback on audio content
- How to collaborate on multi-person podcast discussions
- Career pathways in media, audio production, and digital storytelling
- How podcasts are produced, edited, and distributed to audiences
Equipment
- RODECaster Pro II mixer
- RODE PodMic microphones (4)
- Tabletop mic stands and boom arms
- Professional headphones (4 sets)
- XLR cables
- iPads with Voice Memo app
- Mini SD cards for recording storage
Software
- Voice Memos (iPad)
- Adobe Premiere Pro (for instructor editing demonstrations)
- GarageBand (optional for student editing exploration)
Deliverables: Students and Class Projects
- Weekly practice recordings demonstrating progressive skill development
- Participation in peer feedback sessions
- Exposure to and discussion of contemporary high school and Indigenous-based podcasts to understand diverse storytelling approaches and professional standards
- Collaborative brainstorming and conceptual development of a podcast series relevant to their community (Fort Belknap/Dodson area)
- Demonstrated comfort with hearing and critically analyzing their own recorded voice
- Practical experience conducting interviews and being interviewed, including the development of conversational skills and follow-up questioning techniques
- Final week: Reflection on learning journey and understanding of podcast production process
