Technology is leaving some people behind. That’s why for the first time a “Podcasts” class will be part of the Saint Paul Community Education offerings this fall. Those over 55 are most likely to miss out on these free “Internet radio shows”, but even the young can be left in the dark. For them it’s as if half the Internet went poof!
Rebekah Smith, the host of QuOTeD – The Question of the Day Podcast will be teaching the class. She likens the podcast knowledge gap to earlier technology hurdles. While maybe not as critical as having an email address, Smith says that podcasts are still culturally relevant. “Elected officials, including presidents, have used podcasting to communicate” Smith said. “So if the aim is equality, finding and listening to these shows has to be as easy as Googling a recipe.” Anyone who knows how to use a simple podcast app on their smartphone or other device has access to authors, experts, education, news and entertainment that cannot be found elsewhere. “Some of the best interviews I’ve heard have been on a podcast.” Smith said. “I think it’s because podcasts can dive deep. They don’t live under the same constraints as other media.”
The class will be held two Tuesdays, October 10 & 17 at 6:00 p.m. in Saint Paul. For more information and to enroll, visit https://tce.me/gr9v1d. Anyone can get started listening to podcasts by going to QuestionPodcast.com/HowToListen. “It’s all there.” Smith said. “Those who like to learn with a more personal touch are encouraged to take the class. We’ll help you get started.”
Just days before the class, September 30 marks the 4th anniversary of International Podcast Day. “It’s a nice reminder that just as we did outreach to get people on board with email, we’ll need to make the effort to ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to podcasts.” Smith said.