Evolving Podcasts for PD: Perception is Reality

Uses for podcasts appear to be a moving target. If we perceive the iPod as a toy, then that is what it will be. If we perceive the iPod as a provider of entertainment, then that is how it will be used. As a Professional Development tool, is the podcast, itself, enough? What I mean is . . . what if the podcasts we develop also come with one or two essential questions for self-reflection, based upon the content and the topic to which they relate? If we create a district-wide learning community to support the use of Thinking Maps, then along with discussions and email and resource links, might it also benefit us to consider developing podcasts of Thinking Map end users in action, adding essential questions for self-reflection designed to take Community members to the next level of Thinking Map use?