Language Tools: Websites, Podcasts, iTunes (Part 2 of 2)

The last installment on this topic is on podcasts. 

Podcasts are an invaluable tool for sharing information over the web. Basically, podcasts are audio or video files which are transmitted via the web to computers or mp3 players. You can think of podcasts as a new take on early radio programming. Just as in the last century with radios, podcasts followers tune into (and download) their favorite programs each week.

There are thousands on podcasts on the web covering a variety topics like current events, fashion, humor, arts and crafts; and of interest to us, language. Don’t worry if you do not own a mp3 player or an iPod. These portable mediums just make it easy for you to listen to you podcasts on the go. All you need is a computer. That’s it! Download the podcasts and listen from your computer.

In the last year, Apple computers  has made a huge push to provide educational materials through iTunes. But don’t fret. Both the iTunes software download, and the language podcasts are free and do not require the purchase of a iPod. Follow these instructions to get to the language podcasts.

1. If you don’t already have iTunes, download it from the link above.
2. After you have downloaded iTunes, click on “Podcasts“, located in the “iTunes Store” box in the upper left hand corner.
3. Click on “Education“, located in “Categories” box, which is the second box on the left.
4. Finally, in the third and last box on the left side of the page, click on “Language Courses” which is located in the “More Education” box.

You have now reached iTunes language podcasts page. To see all the the language options and courses available, click on “See All” in the “Featured” box in the middle of the screen. If you scroll through all of the courses available, you will notice they are all free! So jump right in, and practice your English, Spanish, Chinese, or try them all!