Enhancing learning through innovative tools and teaching methods is a persistent challenge in teacher education, particularly in preparing educators to meet the diverse needs of 21st-century learners. Podcasts have gained traction as an educational tool that supports contemporary pedagogical approaches, offering both flexibility and creativity in learning. Beyond serving as a medium for delivering content, podcast creation has emerged as a dynamic and engaging method for fostering active learning, critical thinking, and professional growth among students.

Creating a podcast engages learners in a multifaceted process that combines technical skills, deep content understanding, and pedagogical reflection. For auditory learners, podcasts offer a tailored learning experience that enhances listening comprehension and spoken language abilities. However, the benefits extend far beyond the auditory dimension. The process of planning, scripting, and producing a podcast challenges students to distill complex ideas into clear, accessible formats, necessitating critical thinking and mastery of content. This iterative process also requires high verbal proficiency, creativity, and collaboration, further enriching the learning experience.

Central to the educational value of podcast creation is the reflective process embedded within it. Students engaged in creating podcasts are compelled to examine their pedagogical approaches, articulate their educational philosophies, and adapt their methods to better suit diverse audiences. This reflective practice helps to refine latent pedagogical knowledge, linking theoretical understanding with practical application. It directly influences their teaching competencies by fostering self-awareness and the ability to evaluate and improve their instructional strategies.

Moreover, the reflective process inherent in podcast creation offers a unique avenue for developing social-emotional learning (SEL) skills. These include self-awareness, empathy, social interaction, self-management, and informed decision-making. By navigating challenges collaboratively and reflecting on their experiences, students cultivate these essential skills, which are critical for effective teaching and leadership in the classroom.

Incorporating podcast creation into teacher education programs thus represents a powerful strategy for integrating technology, pedagogy, and SEL development. This approach not only equips future educators with innovative tools but also prepares them to become reflective practitioners capable of fostering meaningful learning experiences.

Keywords: Reflective Practice, Technology, Podcast Creation, Teacher Education, Pedagogical Innovation.