PODCASTING AS AN EMERGING EDUCATIONAL TOOL IN PAKISTAN: THE POTENTIAL AND CHALLENGES

Komal Mehboob; Shahid Rafiq; Bazgha Iram

Komal Mehboob Regional Academic Lead at British Academy of Jewelry, London, UNITED KINGDOM
Shahid Rafiq Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Emerson University Multan, Punjab, Pakistan
Bazgha Iram MPhil Scholar, Education, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan

Keywords: Podcasting, Educational Technology, Digital Divide, Language Barriers, Digital Literacy

Abstract

This study examines podcasting as emerging educational tool in Pakistan, exploring its potential benefits and challenges within local socio-cultural and technological context. Through a qualitative case study involving the semi-structured interviews and focus groups with educators, students, and policymakers, the research highlights podcasting’s promise in enhancing education, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The asynchronous nature of podcasts improves accessibility and flexibility, addressing issues such as irregular internet connectivity and limited educational resources. However, several challenges impede adoption of podcasting in Pakistan’s educational system. The digital divide, mainly in the remote regions, restricts access to necessary technology and reliable internet. There is a shortage of high-quality, locally relevant content, which poses language barriers for students contented with Urdu or regional languages. Study recommends improving digital infrastructure, developing content in local languages, & enhancing digital literacy to ease podcasting’s integration into educational system. With the strategic efforts, podcasting could play a significant role in improving educational outcomes and bridging existing gaps in Pakistan’s education system.