Students will use Google Docs as a collaborative research hub, allowing team members to gather, organize, and analyze information about their chosen changemaker in real time. Each group will create a shared document where they can take notes, insert links to credible sources, and highlight key findings. Using commenting and suggestion mode, students will provide feedback on each other’s research, ensuring accuracy and relevance. The teacher will monitor progress, offering targeted guidance and formative assessments to support source evaluation and synthesis. This digital workspace fosters teamwork, accountability, and structured research, preparing students for the next phase of script development.
Students in the Graphic Design role will use Adobe Express to design original podcast thumbnails that visually represent their changemaker and podcast theme. By leveraging Adobe Express's AI tools, students can generate unique graphics, enhance images, and experiment with design elements to create eye-catching covers. They will incorporate text, color schemes, and icons that align with their podcast’s message, ensuring a professional and engaging final product. This process encourages creativity and digital literacy, allowing students to take ownership of their podcast branding while developing real-world design skills.
Students will use the Brisk Boost chatbot as a research assistant to help them gather and synthesize information about their chosen changemaker. By asking the chatbot essential questions, students can receive concise summaries, suggested resources, and guided explanations to deepen their understanding. This tool will support critical thinking and inquiry by helping students refine their research, verify information, and stay on track with their project goals, promoting independent learning and autonomy throughout the PBL experience.
Students will use Google Forms to exercise autonomy and choice in selecting their changemaker and defining their role within the podcasting project. Through a structured survey, students will rank their top changemaker choices based on interest, ensuring engagement with a topic they are passionate about. Additionally, they will self-select or express preferences for podcast roles—such as scriptwriter, host, audio engineer, graphic designer, or producer—allowing them to leverage their strengths while contributing meaningfully to the team. Students will also nominate their teammates for a role based on strengths. The teacher will review responses to create balanced, interest-driven groups, fostering ownership, collaboration, and accountability throughout the project.
Students in the Graphic Design role will use Google Sites to collaboratively showcase their research on their changemaker and promote their podcast. Each team will design a site that includes background information about their changemaker, key research findings, and the impact of their work. Additionally, students will highlight their podcast team members and roles, providing insight into their creative process. The site will also serve as a hub to share their final podcast recording, allowing them to reach a wider audience and celebrate their work.
Students in the Audio Engineer role will use Pixabay to select royalty-free intro and outro music that sets the tone for their podcast. They will also browse Pixabay’s extensive sound library to find and incorporate appropriate sound effects that enhance storytelling and engagement. By carefully choosing and editing these audio elements, they will help create a polished and immersive listening experience for their audience.
Students in the Audio Engineer role will use GarageBand to edit their group’s podcast, ensuring a professional and polished final product. They will trim audio clips, adjust volume levels, and enhance sound quality using built-in effects and tools. Additionally, they will integrate intro and outro music, sound effects, and transitions to create a smooth and engaging listening experience. Through GarageBand, students will refine their podcast to ensure clarity, coherence, and high-quality production.