Time was when creating ‘media’ in the classroom was limited to the production of a class magazine. Now, of course, with the advent of the Information Age, the creation of school and even class websites is commonplace, as are classproduced CD-ROMs. But now your class can actually experience the world of broadcasting with a school radio station that not only disseminates programming to the school – but to the world! Leaders in this field are 2004 BETT Award winners Radiowaves. Their website radiowaves.co.uk is a network of online radio stations that enables schools to create a web-based radio station and use this as a teaching tool across the curriculum.
Students can record and publish their own work and radio programmes within a safe learning environment and can have their voices heard by other students across the globe. This can b keyed into a w h o l e range of curriculum areas, including literacy, speaking and listening, ICT, citizenship, media studies and music, and encourages peer review and assessment for learning through activities that really engage. The creation of a school radio station offers schools proven educational benefits, through fun and collaborative ways to meet key curricular objectives.
It raises the profile of the school in the wider community and nationally, and gives students a greater sense of ownership and responsibility about their work. Radio is a real-life experience which pushes them to develop independent thinking and problem-solving skills. When pupils pick up a microphone, there can be an amazing transformation. It gives them a reason and the confidence to speak to people they would not normally approach; it allows them to take risks and responsibility for their own actions. Having an audience for their work, pupils become motivated and engaged in the activity. This boosts their self-confidence and helps them to build relationships and to enhance their ICT skills.
Inspiring Learners.
The service provided by Radiowaves offers everything a school needs to inspire learners through engaging activities, and also to empower teachers by giving them the tools, support and confidence to ignite creativity in the classroom. It gives your school its own online radio station, with homepage and content sections accessible via the Internet, and is fully compatible with both the Apple Mac and Windows PC platforms. Included in the package are pre-recorded and focused ‘show me’ tutorials for all members and continued support.