Student-created podcasts as a tool for teaching economics and finance

Abstract

Evidence of using podcasts in the classroom to supplement learning, while engaging students as a teaching tool has gained popularity in various introductory courses across many different disciplines. When compared to research papers, student-created podcasts rely on a less formal and more conversational language combined with hands-on use of technology, they have the potential to increase student engagement in disciplines like economics and finance. The process of simplifying and summarizing analysis, and explaining data in audio-only formats can help students understand concepts better. Further, student-created podcasts help students improve their communication skills, which are crucial for their placement on the job market. Using this hands-on approach, we have introduced podcast assignments in multiple courses. The novelty of our study is that we have introduced the student-created podcasts in upper-level economics and finance courses as an alternative to more traditional assignments while also including the assignments and details for other instructors to easily implement in their own courses. We conducted a survey to measure the impact of the podcasts on student engagement, learning outcomes, and job market preparedness. Having students research, write, and produce a podcast provides them with a tangible experience and a product that can be widely shared over social media and podcast platforms. Based on survey data collected we show that student-created podcasts are a successful educational tool that complements the existing traditional assignments, and students find creating the podcasts highly engaging and valuable.