Podcast

A podcast (/pɒdkæst/) is an audio file which may be obtained on the Internet. Making podcasts is called podcasting. One who does this is a podcaster.

Etymology

The word podcast is a portmanteau of iPod and broadcast. The term was coined by Ben Hammersley, a columnist for The Guardian, in early 2004 while writing an article, and it quickly gained traction in the audioblogging community later that year. Despite the etymology linking it to the iPod, podcasts can be accessed on any electronic device capable of playing audio files, not just Apple’s iPod.

Regarding the origin of the word iPod, it was proposed by Vinnie Chieco, a freelance copywriter working with Apple. Chieco was inspired by the phrase “Open the pod bay doors, Hal” from the classic sci‑fi film 2001: A Space Odyssey. This phrase referred to the white EVA Pods of the spaceship Discovery One, and Chieco drew an analogy between these pods and the relationship between a personal computer and its companion music player, leading to the name iPod.

Origins

The original idea of a podcast was that the file could be downloaded to one’s mp3 player, and listened to whenever one wanted.

Many contemporary radio shows produce podcasts with their material.

Many modern podcasts are also vodcasts.

Using podcasts

Podcasts for EFL learners exist. They typically require at least an elementary-level of understanding for learners to use. They can be a good source of extensive listening for language learners.

Podcasts for EFL teachers also exist. These cover CPD, practical advice, etc.

General interest podcasts also exist. These tend to cover specialist subjects, such as sports, which students may be interested in.