Technology Review: Matoola

MATOOLA is a search tool that locates podcasts across the web.

This easy-to-use website allows users to do a word search to find podcast programs on a wide range of topics from science and social studies to sports and health issues. Results includes the name and date of the podcast, a description, and a control bar to play the podcast. This control bar displays direct links to where the keyword is located in the podcast, the program length, volume controls, and a play button.

Search results can be narrowed by time such as just the past week, month, or year. They can also be sorted by relevance or currency.

Librarians will find this resource a valuable tool in student research and curriculum development. For instance a search for history displays dozens of fascinating podcasts that could be woven into class activities. Young researchers will find this tool to be a effective way to locate information for projects. For instance, a search for autism brings up dozens of recent podcasts on the topic.

To conduct a search, go to http://www.matoola.com.

Website Review: Stuff You Should Know

STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW is a website featuring informational audio and video programs on a wide variety of topics.

From the makers of the popular HOW STUFF WORKS website, this website contains content on topics such as animals, anthropology, art, economics, history, and more. While most of the episodes are audio, video segments are also included at the website.

Each episode can be downloaded and users can subscribe on iTunes and Google Play.

Librarians will want to mine the website for videos that connect with specific curriculum areas. Keep in mind that the podcasts begin with a sponsor announcements. In addition, many of them are more than 30 minutes in length.

To visit the website, go to http://www.stuffyoushouldknow.com/.

Technology Review: Tumble

TUMBLE is a science podcast for kids and families.

Each podcast tells the story of a scientific discoveries and scientists. A science journalist and a classroom teacher ask questions, share mysteries, and help listeners learn key science concepts.

The website’s blog contains interesting information and news stories related to science topics.

The podcast is available through iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play Music. Or, listeners can enjoy the podcasts on the website.

Librarians will find that this educational podcast contains episodes that can easily be aligned with the science curriculum.

To visit the website, go to http://www.sciencepodcastforkids.com/.

Technology Review: Lytten

LYTTEN is a search tool that allows users to search within audio programs.

Whether looking for information within a historical broadcast to exploring current events topics, Lytten provides an easy way to find relevant information within an audio program. For instance, a search for “honeybees” brings up podcasts focusing on the disappearance of bees. Users can then listen to the entire audio program or jump to a particular section discussing honeybees.

Librarians will find this tool useful in developing curriculum materials. This website allows the user to quickly locate audio clips related to key concepts. Use to search podcasts across the curriculum. In particular, share this tool with at-risk and special needs students who use their auditory senses for learning.

To explore this website, go to http://www.lytten.com/.

Technology Review: Short & Curly

SHORT & CURLY is an Australia Broadcasting Network fast-paced podcast aimed at inquisitive children.

Each 20 minute, fun-filled podcast focuses on a different ethics topic related to technology, animals, school, pop culture, or some other interesting theme. Designed for children and families, the podcasts are designed to stimulate conversation.

Librarians will find these engaging podcasts address topics of interest to children. Consider an activity that involves asking students to listen to an episode and write their reaction to the ethics issue discussed.

To visit the website, go to https://soundcloud.com/short-curly.

Technology Review: Brains On!

BRAINS ON! is a website containing engaging science podcasts for youth.

Produced by MPR News and Southern California Public Radio, these short, informative podcasts ask and answer fascinating science questions. While some podcasts interview experts and scientists, others are presented in the form of plays or songs. Each podcasts is co-hosted by a different child.

Users can listen to the latest podcast or explore archived programs. Children can also go directly to a list of podcasts focusing on interviews, music, activities, or audio.

Librarians will find that children enjoy the website’s approach to presenting science information. Use these podcasts to inspire teachers and children to create their own class programs.

To visit the website, go to http://www.brainson.org/.

Technology Review: Radio Lab

RADIO LAB is a website and app containing engaging podcasts on topics related to science, philosophy, and the human experience.

Although these audio programs can be heard on the radio, users are increasingly accessing the content through the program website. The resource is divided into three sections: listen, read, and watch.

The Listen section provides access to the latest podcasts along with a link to the Episode Archive. For each hour-long episode, users can view an image and read an overview of the program. Users can also explore recommended links to extend the experience. The podcast page provides options to listen online, add the episode to a playlist, download the program, embed the program, or make comments. Related podcasts are also suggested.

The Read section provides a blog focusing on recent episodes. These short articles often include images, video clips, and web links to extend the experience.

The Watch section features interesting and sometimes amazing videos along with articles that discuss the topic.

The app allows users to listen to the podcasts, read the show blogs, and access the same content as the website.

Although the programs are aimed at a general audience, they contain information of interest to older children and young adults. A wide range of topics are available from sports and politics to environmental and social issues.

Librarians will find this website an excellent tool for promoting auditory literacy and supporting informational reading activities. The short programs would be an effective way to kick off a research project. Ask students to listen or read a program, write research questions, and conduct their own inquiry using the program as a starting point.

Use the podcasts with student researchers who have reading challenges. Audio can also be an excellent format for other youth with special needs.

To visit the website, go to http://www.radiolab.org/
To download the app, go to http://www.radiolab.org/mobile/.