Spotlight on Evolution: Podcasting

• Suitable for Senior Phase (S4–6) Biology
• Mon 14–Wed 16 November / Mon 21–Wednesday 23 November, 13:00 (3hrs)
• Max 15 students per session

What will my students do in the workshop?

• Introduction to podcasting: with our science communicator, explore the process of constructing a short podcast, recording and editing audio. Work in five groups of three, with each student taking on a specific role within the group – lead editor, lead researcher and lead interviewer.
• Spotlight on evolution: meet a curator from the natural sciences department who will describe their area of work and introduce groups to their ‘spotlight on evolution’ research topic.
• Self-led research: use the natural science galleries and the Info Zone to conduct self-led research into ‘spotlight on evolution’ topics.
• Writing and recording: conduct and record short interviews with the curator and write and record their own introduction and closing comments.
• Editing: use editing software to create a dynamic and informative short podcast which may then be featured online.

What will my students produce?

You can listen to podcasts produced by pupils here.

North Berwick High School

Pupils from North Berwick High School interviewed Dr Sarah Stewart, Assistant Curator of Paleobiology at National Museums Scotland about the evolution of dinosaurs. You can hear their podcasts here.

Whitburn Academy

Pupils from Whitburn Academy interviewed Dr Andrew Kitchener, Principal Curator of Mammals at National Museums Scotland about sabre tooth mamals. You can hear their podcasts here.

You can also find out more about this workshop on the Feast Bowl blog.

Curriculum areas and learning outcomes

Biology (Higher)

Genetics and adaptation

• Variation
• Selection and speciation
• Animal and plant adaptations

Learning outcomes

• Expanding knowledge and understanding of evolutionary theory using the National Museum of Scotland’s natural history collection and by meeting a natural sciences curator.
• Developing presentation and communication skills.
• Developing a positive attitude to science communication/science engagement.
• Working as part of a team, taking on leadership roles within a group.
• Learning to use podcasting equipment and editing software.
• Learning about examples of science podcasts dealing with contemporary science issues.
• Appreciating the need to meet a brief and work to a deadline.
• Discovering more about the National Museum of Scotland by using galleries as a creative inspiration for design work.