The term podcasting derives its name from Apple's iPod, but to create a podcast or even to listen to one, you don't need to own an iPod, or any portable music player for that matter. In a nutshell, Podcasting is a new type of online media delivery. You publish selected audio files via the internet and allow your users to subscribe via an RSS feed to automatically receive new files. Podcasting lets you create your own syndicated online talkshow or radio program, with content of your choosing.

The term "podcast" is both a noun and a verb. As a noun it refers to the file that is downloaded or streamed; as a verb it refers to the process or method of delivering the file.

A podcast is a series of digital-media files which are distributed over the Internet using syndication feeds for playback on portable media players and computers. The term podcast, like broadcast, can refer either to the series of content itself or to the method by which it is syndicated; the latter is also called podcasting. The host or author of a podcast is often called a podcaster.

“Podcasting is online audio content that is delivered via an RSS feed”

Podcasting is the latest in on-the-go, on-demand technology. With podcasting, you can listen to radio programs or events whenever and wherever you choose. Podcasts are MP3 audio files that are automatically downloaded to your personal computer, and then transferred to an iPod or other MP3 player using a podcasting application.

Video pod cast is a term used for the online delivery of video on demand video clip content RSS enclosures.

The term is an evolution specialized for video, coming from the generally audio-based pod cast and referring to the distribution of video where the RSS feed is used as a non-linear TV channel to which consumers can subscribe using any computer.

WHY USE PODCASTING?

   Pod casts enable flexible study. Students can download and listen to pod casts at any time on their computers, iPods or mobile phones.

   Pod casts promote revision. Because students can download pod casts, they can listen and re-listen whenever, where ever and at whatever pace they need.

   Pod casts are familiar and easy to use. Many students are familiar and comfortable with downloading and listening to pod casts.

   Pod casts promote continuous learning. Pod casts work on the basis of subscription, so new files download automatically to a program connected to the internet (i.e. no searching for information every week).

   Pod casts are free, and convenient. Applications that play them are free for students to download and File formats are cross-platform and can play in most media players (such as iTunes, MS Media Player etc.).