What is a podcast?
Definition
A podcast is a recorded audio program, similar to a radio show, that is in a digital format and available for download over the Internet. Podcast episodes are delivered via the Internet using RSS (Really Simple Syndication). Consumers subscribe to podcasts using a client application such as iTunes and once new episodes are posted, they are automatically downloaded and made available to the consumer. [1]
History
Former MTV VJ Adam Curry and software developer Dave Winer are credited with developing podcasting in 2004. Curry’s program, iPodder, allowed him to automatically download Internet radio broadcasts to his iPod. While Curry and Winer are credited with the idea of podcasting, Ben Hammersly was the first to use the term "podcasting" as a descriptor.
Podcasts have evolved since their conception in 2004. They are not only for recordings made by musicians or authors. Podcasting is used regularly by businesses: promoting products and ideas, doctors; sharing their knowledge with their colleagues, and schools; for a variety of disciplines. The uses of the podcast are vast and almost limitless. (Felix, Stolartz 1) Apple has recently added a fifth generation iPod that can deliver images. Two models are available; one has 30GB capability and the other 60GB. The options of videos to play on the new players are still limited. ABC is currently the only network offering downloads of your favorite shows; however CBS has plans to follow soon. There is usually a fee to down load a television show as well as a music video. (Fischer 50)
Listening
Listening to a podcast is a very simple task and requires only a few simple steps. First you need to find a podcast to subscribe to. This can be done by visiting a podcast search site and click on the link for the podcast you wish to listen to. You can either listen to the podcast immediately on your computer, or you can download it to a portable media player for listening later.
The simplest way to subscribe to podcasts is through iTunes. Once you subscribe to a podcast, iTunes will automatically download any new episodes as soon as they become available.
References
1. Felix,Lionel and Stolartz, Damien. "Hands on Guide to Video Blogging and Podcasting/Emerging Tools for Business Communication". copyright, 2006 published by: Oxford Focal Press
2. Fischer, Russ."I Spy". LAPTOP mobile solutions for bussiness and life.January 2006, copyright 2005, publishsed by: Bedford Communications
3. Dave @ scripting.com. "INDIEPODDER . org, your podcast directory". 26 Oct. 2004. online, 05 Oct. 2006 <http://www.ipodder.org/whatispodcasting> copyright 2006
4. Curry, Adam. "INDIEPODDER . org, your podcast directory". 15 Dec. 2004. online, 05 Oct. 2006 <http://www.ipodder.org/history> copyright2006
5. wikipedia. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Podcasting> (opening page) online, 05 Oct. 2006
6. FAQs: For Podcast Fans retrieved 07 April 2014.
7. Brief History of Podcasting retrieved 07 April 2014.
8. How Podcasting Works retrieved 07 April 2014.
9. Cicccarelli, Stephanie. History of Podcasting retrieved 06 April 2014
10. Oxford Dictionary definition