College Students' Motivations for Using Podcasts

Abstract

Despite potential benefits of podcasts for college education, little research has examined students' psychological drives for using podcasts. To explore the relationship between the use of podcasts and college students' appreciation of them, this study investigated students' motivations, attitudes and behaviors with regard to podcasts use including their learning environment. Based on a survey with 636 college students, this study found that six dimensions of motivations were prominent for podcasts use: (1) voyeurism/social interaction/companionship, (2) entertainment/relaxation/arousal, (3) education/information, (4) pastime/escape, (5) habit, and (6) convenience. In particular, motivations catering to relationship consolidation, excitement and educational achievement better explained the actual use of podcasts as well as students' appreciation than other motivations identified. In addition, students' attachment to the medium is a strong predictor of their podcasts use and gratification. Students also used podcasts to satisfy their fashion motivation. Theoretical and practical implications of using podcasts for digital literacy in college education were discussed.