Podcasts

Wikipedia has an excellent definition of podcasting. In laymans terms in allows users to download files (usually audio but also video) onto a computer, portable MP3 player, phone etc.

How do I find podcasts?

Many of your favourite radio stations offer podcasts of popular shows so have a look at their websites to discover if you can get your favourite program (at a time convenient to you). The sites below also give instructions on how to download podcasts.
If your'e looking for a podcast on a particular subject check out a search site like;
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YouTube

Youtube has turned anyone in to film makers.

It is used to;
  • promote great video clips from new bands like this one from OK GO which helped get them commercial airplay.
  • watch historical / cultural and politcial footage such as the Whitlam "It's time commercial"
  • make short films like Bob the Pen created by Camden Library Service and Camden Creative Studios.

Youtube is a worthwhile tool that can be used not only as a means of expression by teens, but also as a research tool to access archival and current footage (remember the same rules of authority apply).

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Wiki's

No they are not a species in Star Wars.

To find out what a wiki is look at the mother of all wiki sites Wikipedia's entry.

Wikipedia ia probably the most well known Wiki due to its ease of use and the comprehensiveness of its entries.

Is Wikipedia suitable for assignments?
No.
And Yes.

From year 7 up it is common for teachers to ask for assignments to be referenced - this indicates where the student has found the information. When high school students evaluate information it should come from a person or organisation that has authority (expert knowledge) on the subject.

A good reference for an assignment should generally come from a source that is an expert. Governments, Universities and Professional bodies are all examples of expert sources. Books and journals (academic magazines) undergo rigourous examination before being published - this is generally why they are considered good sources for assignments.

Because Wikipedia is a collaborative effort anyone can contribute to entries. While wikipedia monitors entries and tries to maintain their authenticity it may not get to an entry until after your child has used (wrong) information for an assignment.
Wikipedia is a great resource to provide an introduction to a topic - however all information should be double checked and should not be used when referencing assignments (especially at secondary and tertiary level).

As most kids don't have time to double check facts use something you can trust in the first place such as the online version of Enclopedia Brittanica. Or ask a Librarian.

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Blogging

Ok, it sounds like something that is caught in the back of your throat, but Blogs are an easily accessable Social Networking tool. Congratulations you are looking at one now!

So what are they?

A blog is short for "weblog". Basically they are an online journal that allows anyone to create anything and then tell the world.

Most people have looked at a blog without even realising it.

The following are some diverse examples of blogs;


How do I set up a blog?

The easiest way is to use a blog hosting service and follow their instructions.

Blog Hosts include :

Setting up your blog is easy, the hardest part will be deciding what to call your blog. There are only three steps:

1. Create an account - you need an email for this.

2.Name your blog - This is the hardest part it

3. Select your template - the creative part. Take a look at the tutorial of your blog host before you start to give you on overview.

How do I find blogs of interest?

Blog search engines include:

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Internet Messaging

This is where people can "chat" to friends in real time. This program is often used at the same time as other programs (teens are very good at multi-tasking or at least think they are.)

The main program used is Windows Live Messenger (MSN) - Arguably the most popular messaging service on the planet. It allows participants to chat via text and video, share folders and text message phones http://get.live.com/messenger/features.

Messenger is fantastic;

  • for keeping in touch with friends around the world, or next door
  • as it is is cheaper than a phone call
  • you can check what your friends thinks of your latest outfit / piercing without having to leave the house.
  • for wasting time while your parents think you are doing homework - looking at sites on the net while you are having a conversation (or multiple conversations) in the background with mates. (Have a look at the menu bar at the bottom of the page to see how many programs are open - or if you use tabbed browing look at how many tabs are open).

Another chat program (plug for libraries!!) which is useful for teens doing homework is AskNow! http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/ask/. This site is open from 9am - 7pm on weekdays and allows access to superlibrarians from the comfort of home. Remember this site if your teen (or you) is having trouble finding quality info on the net.


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