Continuing Studies: A Higher Education Podcast for University Podcasters

A new way for students to connect with and absorb a textbook in bite-sized episodes. Join hosts Neil McPhedran & Jennifer - Lee Gunson as they continue an insightful conversation with Dr. Craig Van Slyke, an academic trailblazer who's innovating in higher education through his use of podcasting. In this episode, zoom in on Craig's companion podcast, "Information Systems for Business," shedding light on its unique role teaching his cyber-security textbook. Craig shares anecdotes of students benefiting from this innovative approach, emphasizing the value of supplementary learning materials like his podcast. They also delve into the challenges of feedback and engagement in the podcasting world. Tune in for an enriching conversation that underscores the potential of podcasting as an accessible and impactful educational tool.

Chapter Timestamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Jennifer-Lee Gunson & Neil McPhedran introduce the podcast, themselves, and Craig Van Slyke

(00:01:55) Information Systems for Business Podcast

Explanation of Craig's podcast and its role as a companion to his textbook. The purpose of the podcast is to make complex content more accessible.

(00:03:16) The Purpose of Behind the Podcast

Craig goes through his purpose behind the podcast as a learning tool, and additional touch point in an environment of different student needs

(00:04:55) Podcast Creation

Insights into creating multiple podcasts and leveraging podcasting experience.

(00:06:00) Modern Learning Styles

Discussion on how modern students prefer on-demand, bite-sized learning and the importance of adapting learning to this this changing world

(00:07:23) Making Content Accessible
The decision to make the podcast available to the public. Belief in the accessibility of educational content, and adapting to student’s needs.

(00:09:37) Impact of the Podcast on Student Learning

Craig talks about a study assessing the podcast's impact on student learning. Exploring student feedback on the podcast's usefulness.The challenge of not requiring students to listen.

(00:10:41) Podcast Support

Jen & Neil ask about adoption of this kind of learning from other faculty as well as other professors who are using the text. Craig clarifies that "Information Systems for Business" is entirely his initiative.

(00:11:59) One-Star Reviews and Feedback

Craig discusses the challenge of getting feedback and engagement from podcast listeners. Jen echoes this experience and the value of one-star reviews and passionate engagement. 

(00:13:45) Exam-Related Spikes in Downloads

Neil and Craig talk about spikes in downloads around exam periods and the benefits of students revisiting content before exams.

(00:14:51) Podcast Disclaimer

Craig walks us through the disclaimer he gives off the top of each episode and the reasoning behind it. 

(00:16:36) Episode Conclusion

Neil and Jen wrap up the interview with Craig, highlighting his passion for education and podcasting and each of their takeaways from the interview.