This Web site is designed to teach all levels of Mandarin Chinese through audio podcasting. Learners can use iTunes and iPods to listen to daily podcast lessons hosted by Ken Carroll and his associates from Shanghai, China. The lessons range from 15 to 30 minutes. Users can also participate in online discussions through this sites Blog and Wiki.
Type of Material:
Podcasts
Recommended Uses:
Self-study or as a supplement to any Chinese course
Technical Requirements:
Web browser, iTunes, or iPod
Identify Major Learning Goals:
Listening skills development
Target Student Population:
Learners of Chinese from basic speaking ability to advanced listening ability.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
n/a
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
This is an innovative teaching tool with daily audio lessons for learners at all levels of Chinese. Learners can also access the archives, which contain an abundance of learning materials that can be searched by topic and level of difficulty. The lessons cover multiple aspects of Chinese language and culture, and the topics presented are interesting and useful.
Concerns:
n/a
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
The podcast technology provides a convenient way for individuals to learn Chinese. Learners at all levels of Chinese can listen to the daily broadcast from virtually anywhere at anytime. The interactions between the hosts create a vicarious environment for learners. Users get the sense of being part of the conversation as opposed to listening to a lecture. Additionally, users can learn extra materials from the online discussions in this site.
Concerns:
Essential materials such as vocabulary, transcripts, reviews, and lesson plans are only available to subscribers
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The site is well designed with clear labels, objectives, and categorization schemes. The playback button for each lesson is visually distinct, and loading time is reasonably short for the amount of materials. Instructions on download and file size of each lesson are clearly marked.
Concerns:
n/a
Creative Commons:
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