Podcast Interviews in Physics

Academic Division: Math, Natural, and Health Sciences

Redesign: Written assignment into interview podcast

In a PHYS 100 Survey of Physics course, a professor sought to boost student engagement through the innovative use of podcasting. Moving up to the Modification level of the SAMR model, the redesigned assignment had students create podcasts instead of written papers to demonstrate their understanding of key concepts, fostering active learning and creativity. Students conducted interviews, performed experiments, and explained complex topics in their own voices. The podcast format also enhanced collaboration and peer learning as students worked together to research topics and develop episodes.