Video Podcasts Mix Up the Classroom Scene

Remixing Chemistry Class by Jonathan Bergmann and Aaron Sams

Remixing Chemistry Class was about two chemistry teachers in Colorado who were fed up with how their class time was spent with the students. After reviewing the previous night’s homework and providing the students with a lecture on a new topic, both Bergmann and Sams only had about thirty minutes for the students to complete actual lab work. During their class, Bergmann and Sams were not capable of giving all the students the individual attention they needed- so they remixed how their chemistry classes were taught. Bergmann and Sams decided to add a bit of technology to their classes in the form of vodcasts (video podcasts). These two teachers would record their lectures, and then post them online so that students could watch the lecture before coming to class. This allows Bergmann and Sams’ class time to be more devoted to student questions and lab work, without the lecture. For students who do not have internet or computers at home, the teachers had DVDs and CDs available to those students. Also, Bergmann and Sams could see who was watching the videos and who was not. What students, teachers and parents enjoyed the most about adding the vodcast element to the classroom was that students who were struggling received more one-on-one and individualized time with the instructors. Also, for students who understood the material, they were capable of working independently, and even moving ahead so they were not being held back due to the lack of classroom time.

I found adding vodcasts to the classroom to be a very inventive and creative idea. Vodcasts are great because they allow students to rewind, replay and revisit subject material that students find difficult or confusing. I truly believe that as educators, we need to have more student-centered activities in the classroom- and vodcasts are perfect for student-centered learning. If the funding and technology is available, I will definitely incorporate vodcasts into my classroom. I will have students watch my lecture as homework. As students are watching and listening to my vodcast, I will have some interactive worksheet available both online and as a hardcopy so that I can make sure my students are watching the vodcasts, as well as understanding them. I find this idea to have the best interest of the students at heart, and will benefit the students as it will allow students who are dedicated to learning to excel, and students who are struggling to have the attention and help they need. I believe that vodcasts will one day be an essential learning tool in all classrooms as more class time will be able to be spent on actual work and hands-on activities.