Vodcasting: An intelligent extension or pending derivative of traditional Open Distance Learning Tools?

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to report on the findings of a comprehensive study conducted to investigate the use and perceptions of undergraduate communication science students on vodcasts available for download from the communication science module web site. Twenty-four module-related vodcasts were created to enhance their learning. Firstly, it was accessed qualitatively against theoretical statements within an interpretivistic paradigm based on thematic categories derived from Monge’s (1999) three notable influences of globalisation on communication, namely: time and space compression; global consciousness and reflexivity; and disembeddedness in single locations. Secondly, quantitative analysis was done through a survey to determine the perceptions of the students to the newly introduced medium and perceived benefits. Findings suggest that vodcasts can bridge teaching distances inherent to ODL, but that it should be integrated with interactive and reciprocal interactions, new communication technologies and the local application of global knowledge.