The effectiveness of Podcasts when used in a Fifth Year Higher Leaving Certificate Mathematics class and a Junior Certificate Learning Support class.

This is an action research study focussing on Second level schools in Ireland. The research is carried out in two separate schools, one a Fifth Year Leaving Certificate higher mathematics class (senior class), and a Junior Certificate learning support class (junior class). The aim of the research is to see if podcasts can improve the learning and motivation of the students. Podcasts were made available to the senior class and students completed a research diary each time they listened to the podcasts. The diary noted any changes in student behaviour during the study. The areas focussed on were, study patterns, cognitive learning outcomes and the students' motivation and "learning to learn". Learning preferences were studied to see if the use of podcasts were associated with aural learning styles. The study of the Junior Certificate class focussed on the students themselves creating podcasts. There were various levels of literacy difficulties in the class. The students' motivation was monitored by questionnaire based on Keller's ARCS motivational model. The results of their work both written and a podcast was assessed using rubrics to see if there were any differences in quality and content. Teacher logs were use to get teachers views of the study and its effects. The results show podcasts had little effect on motivation of the senior class but cognitive outcomes of podcasts as a study resource and as a source for consolidation was considered good. The study helped to highlight problems with the use podcasts in the current Leaving Certificate system. The junior study found that creating podcasts have significant motivational appeal and the use of podcast substantially helped students with literacy difficulties. The study was very positive in many respects and podcasts will continue to be used by the teachers with this class. Modifications on their use will be made to suite the circumstances on an ongoing basis