Some useful tips for podcasting

Podcasting is a method that provides a digital distribution of files over the internet, and subscribable; and there are many sites to look for them, like: iTunes, Podomatic, BBC News, and others so, including universities all around the world (if you are interested in educational issues).

Mainly a podcast is a MP3 audio, but you can find videos (called vodcast), and Screencast as well; which may be focused on a specific topic or not, they are presented on episodes, a serial or topics related to a subject.

The podcast follow certain format, it depends on the site; the one below is for iTunes, one of the most used one, just check that the information can be found on the main web page of any site subscribed.

That is about professional podcast sites that provide you the material, but what about when you need to create them?

1.- Choose a topic, which should be attractive, and interesting.2.- Organize the content (like a layout, called storyboard):

a) Introductionb) body: (talks, lectures, interviews, etc…)c) Conclusion.

3.- Take into account the lenght of your audio; and the frequency you are going to release your episodes.4.- Create a suitable title or slogan and description.5.- Music in timeline will provide a personality to your podcast. A cool image or visuals enhance all this above. But, check the copyright regulations for it.

Well, you have not finished the pre-production of your audio material yet. Be sure your hardware is in good conditions: microphone and video camera (if needed).

I really recommend to write a script (like a cheat-sheet), this guides us to follow the plan. Practice until you feel sure enough. Clear and calm, avoid long pauses or stammering. Try to be natural and authentic.

Now, let’s begin the recording with the software you have chosen, (Audacity for instance).

Edit, save and export (as MP3) your material. Do not forget to add visual and music credits!

Finally upload it on the host page. (Podomatic could be)

http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/worldservice/eaw/rss.xml

http://www.slideshare.net/jpadillaa/podcasting-y-podomatic

Here you can find more tips:

http://www.slideshare.net/slaidsherin/audacity-tutorial-19505369

Resources on the net.

ARIADNA GÓMEZ