Podcasting as an instructional supplement to online learning: a pilot study.

There is increasing interest in the use of mobile technologies for nursing educational purposes in academic settings, but few evaluative studies exist. Understanding the best use of podcasting during distance learning is basic for instructional design. This pilot study compared online reading to a supplementary podcast to determine graduate nursing students' preferences and usage. Results indicated that students did not download the podcast to a mobile device but multitasked while listening. The podcast and the readings were equally supported as important by nursing students. Podcasting in distance-accessible courses may engage students by providing a human voice and thus a better virtual connection. Podcasting is only one method of knowledge acquisition; distance learning courses should consider providing multiple learner-centered delivery methods, given the variety of learning styles.