The Power of Digital Audio Storytelling: From Podcasts to Voice Assistants

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Free Online Course: The Power of Digital Audio Storytelling: From Podcasts to Voice Assistants provided by Independent is a comprehensive online course, which lasts for 4 weeks long. The course is taught in English and is free of charge. Upon completion of the course, you can receive an e-certificate from Independent.

Overview
  • During this four-week course, you'll gain an understanding of why one of the oldest storytelling forms is having a renaissance thanks to technological changes. We'll explore the fundamentals of great audio storytelling, podcasting, voice assistants, how to get audio to your audiences, and more.

Syllabus
  • Introduction Module: Course description

    In the introductory module, you will get an overview of the course structure and meet the instructor.

    Module 1: Why audio, why now?

    We look at the reasons audio storytelling has been able to endure.

    This module will cover:

    • Why audio
    • The enduring power of audio
    • Technology shifts and new opportunities
    • A lean back medium adapts to a lean forward world
    • A conversation about how audio storytelling has persisted with Julie Shapiro, Executive Producer Radiotopia from PRX

    Module 2: Fundamentals of great audio storytelling is the key to the future

    We break down the fundamentals of great storytelling - fundamentals that endure regardless of the technological platform.

    This module will cover:

    • Emotion and the heart of audio storytelling
    • Writing for the ear
    • Audience of 1
    • Sound design practitioner interview with Ramtin Arablouei, co-producer and co-host, Throughline
    • Making the transition from print to audio with practitioner interview Hannah Allam, correspondent, NPR

    Module 3: The podcasting (r)evolution

    Podcasting has changed the game in how audio is produced, consumed, & thought of.

    This module will cover:

    • How podcasting injected new life into audio
    • From basements to big business with guest interview with Nick Quah founder of the podcasting newsletter Hot Pod
    • From quirky guys in a garage to daily news. Guest interview with Samantha Henig, formerly New York Times now Buzzfeed News

    Module 4: Big tech embraces the oldest communication form

    Technology has opened up the opportunities for audio storytelling.

    This module will cover:

    • How audio is encountered on listening platforms from linear to on demand and algorithms in between
    • Voice assistants and interactive audio storytelling practitioner interview with Nicky Birch, Commissioning Exec BBC Voice + AI
    • Voice platform adoption internationally, interview with Ezra Eeman from European Broadcasters Union
    • Your platform or mine? How will you get your audio to audiences