Podcasts & Blogs

Podcasts began primarily as digital audio content, similar to radio broadcasts, but available on demand via download or streaming. As video podcasts have grown in popularity, the term “podcast” now commonly refers to both audio and video formats. A distinguishing feature of podcasts is the ability for listeners to subscribe to feeds that automatically deliver new content as it is published. Podcast series typically focus on a particular topic or theme, with one or more regular hosts and may feature invited guests. Most podcasts are freely available and often supported through advertising or product sales, although some require a paid subscription or are only accessible through a specific streaming platform.

Podcasts are a widely used medium for entertainment and leisure but can also be useful for staying informed about current affairs, business trends, or developments in a field or area of study. A growing number of scholars are using podcasts to share their research with a wider audience and connect with other researchers. Podcasts can be a useful source of information for an assignment when they are produced or authored by reliable sources such as universities or reputable media organizations (e.g., TVO, CBC, PBS). However, they are not considered a scholarly source, even when presented by scholars or experts in a field.

University professors may give assignments that involve the creation of podcasts so that their students not only develop research and communication competencies but also apply digital media and technology skills. York University Libraries supports podcast creation with learning resources, equipment lending and recording studios through our Making and Media Creation Lab

Blogs began as personal journals but these days a majority are professional in nature, produced by news organizations, academic or professional organizations, companies, media outlets or think tanks. Distinguishing features of blogs include frequently updated posts presented in reverse chronological order and the ability for readers to contribute comments.

Blogs can be particularly useful for following current issues, trends and opinions. At one time a highly prominent medium to share commentary and ideas online, blogs are not as high-profile as they once were, as much online dissemination of information has shifted to managed platforms with built-in audiences, such as Substack, Medium, or social medial channels.

Remember, anyone can publish a blog or a podcast, and the motivations behind their creation can vary widely, so it is essential that you think critically about authority and potential bias when you are using both blogs and podcasts (see PARCA Test in Resources).