A recent study by the Pew Internet and American Life Project suggests that more Americans are tuning into podcasts.
If you haven't heard, podcast are audio files that can be downloaded to an MP3 player. Not only can we now listen to our favorite music, but also to conference proceedings, lectures, commercials, etc....
According to the study 29% of the 22 million people who own MP3 players listen to podcasts. The podcasts audience is predominantly middle to upper class, and young, between the ages of 18 and 28.
If the study proves valid, the rapid diffusion of this innovation may have interesting and significant consequences for educators. For those who believe in teaching where students live--the Internet--podcasting may increase the potential of reaching learning outcomes and managing personal goals.
At the same time, some people think the estimates are too high and the study's methodology flawed. Washington Post Staff Writer Robert MacMillian has an insightful story on this in "Podcasting in the Dark."