Leah Burger is a doctoral student in the Literacy Studies program in the College of Education at the University of South Florida. Her research is focused on how writing and critical digital literacies can help leverage children’s creative potential. Additionally, she is a research assistant to Dr. Lindsay Persohn and the Classroom Caffeine Podcast.
Session Description
While school- or district-provided teacher Professional Development aims to achieve standardized goals, autonomous and inquiry-driven conversations can supplement and individualize professional learning opportunities. Busy teachers may utilize education podcasts as a targeted way to examine problems of practice. Educators can freely access podcasts relevant to their interests and needs with any internet-connected device at any time. Podcasts can showcase the work of researchers and expert educators by providing a conversational approach to professional learning. By listening to common podcast episodes or series, educators can tap into shared texts that can facilitate professional conversations. Teachers can form Pod Clubs, similar to book clubs, by coming together to discuss what they heard. Pod Clubs offer group members opportunities for tailored professional learning, critical reflection, and collaborative conversations.
In this session, we will provide attendees a How-To Guide for bringing Pod Clubs to their own school or district. We will describe the contexts and methods of our pilot study and share key findings. Attendees will then participate in a demonstration Pod Club meeting by listening to a podcast excerpt, noting initial reactions, and discussing potential applications of ideas. In conclusion, we will share resources so our audience can launch Pod Clubs in their own spaces and support others in these accessible and tailored professional learning opportunities.