TOP PICKS | 15 TOOLS
Best Podcast Apps and Websites for Students
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Podcasts
Search, access, and organize podcasts from iTunes' free library
Bottom line: This valuable tool helps teachers and students find educational podcasts that can supplement or replace the use of traditional textbooks.
GarageBand
Amazingly powerful audio workstation unleashes creativity
Bottom line: There's exceptional functionality in this solid, all-inclusive audio workstation that's fantastic for high-quality, anytime, and anywhere audio recording and sharing.
Science Friday
A weekly dose of curiosity for teachers and students alike
Bottom line: For a weekly rejuvenation of scientific learning, Science Friday is a source of inspiration for both teachers and students.
Audacity
Free online music-maker also a lesson in open-source software quality
Bottom line: With tons of quality tutorials and help, this free recording site is a real treat for those who don't have access to the branded software.
StoryCorps
From the everyday to the extraordinary, personal interviews get kids listening
Bottom line: It's a great resource to help demonstrate the value of listening and the importance of storytelling and interviewing skills.
Listenwise
Bring real-world stories from public radio into the classroom
Bottom line: A fantastic resource that brings both historical and current event public radio stories into the classroom.
Youth Radio
A stellar take on the news from diverse kid journalists
Bottom line: An outstanding place to find fresh voices and NPR-quality content created by kids.
Anchor
Podcasting app is super easy to use, if you can do it all in one take
Bottom line: There are few easier ways to publish a podcast, but that ease of use comes at the cost of one-take creation and few tools for post-production.
Radio Rookies
Teens share enthusiastic voices on serious topics
Bottom line: Radio Rookies could use a few content updates, but its heart is in the right place and it shows.
Soundtrap
Powerful online audio production with built-in collaboration features
Bottom line: Soundtrap is a uniquely collaborative music-production environment, but you'll want to evaluate the privacy issues and what the pricey EDU version offers.
HowStuffWorks
Explore the world's nuts and bolts in this fab interactive info hub
Bottom line: Interesting, well-researched articles make this free resource a gem.
NPR: Borderland
Illuminating, up-close-and-personal visit to the U.S.-Mexico border
Bottom line: As a truly unique resource that's worth using, teachers will need to create lessons that scaffold students' understanding of the complex issues found within.
NPR News
Top-notch digital content takes students beyond the airwaves
Bottom line: Provides an easy, fun, and effective way to engage students with radio.
NPR One
Trusty podcast app has quality content but lacks learning supports
Bottom line: An enticing free option for connecting current events to content through podcasts, but student engagement hinges on how you incorporate it.
Science Update
60-second podcasts spark kids' interest with daily fix of science news
Bottom line: Amidst some fun, these audio clips provide a regular dose of news about current scientific research.
