Podcasts

The use of the term podcast refers to a digital media file or series of files delivered over the Internet for playback on portable media players /mobile web devices and computers. In some cases, these file series are updated on a regular basis and made available for the user to automatically download. The files may also be created as individual files to be used and reused. Whether the files are single files or a series of files, they are designed to be accessed as interactive text, audio, and/or video output.

The trainee’s ability to access training is significantly expanded when a variety of delivery options are available. This is particularly true for Generation X and Y students who are instinctively comfortable with the technology-based training (TBT) approach to learning and have grown up in the age of cell phones, laptops, and MP3 Players.

The NFSTC has added this portable access method to an array of multimedia approaches for the delivery of training. Examples of how the NFSTC has provided this solution include the conversion of the What Every Law Enforcement Officer Should Know about DNA Evidence brochure and quick reference guide into podcast audio book format. In addition, the NFSTC has produced the National Institute of Justice’s Expert Systems podcast, which is scheduled to be released in 2007.

The NFSTC is seeking funding from foundatations to address the portable training demand by purchasing at least one MP3 player for each of the 425 crime laboratories in the United States. The MP3 player would be a crime laboratory library resource that could be checked out by analysts at different times to download and use training material.

Podcast Files:

2005 Missing Persons Regional Training (U.S. Department of Justice)

   --Links to files available in Flash, Quicktime, and Window Media Player formats