The Grassroots Learning Project, spearheaded by Chester Bateman of the College of Education at Oregon State University, has been in its beginning, experimental stages since early this year. Now, Bateman and other participants are exploring new potential partnerships and looking at how to make the project an on-going part of OSU.

"Due to the success of the Grassroots Learning Project, the College of Education has formed a podcast taskforce," Bateman said. "We're looking at podcasting as another channel to support learning for all."

So far, the podcasts have featured faculty and students from OSU as well as participants from the Corvallis School District, community members and local organizations. The podcasts have all emphasized education in many forms. The Gazette-Times has partnered on some of these podcasts, and reporter Theresa Hogue has appeared as a frequent podcast interviewer.

OSU student Garrett Vogenbeck is an intern with the project, and has recorded most of its sessions in KBVR's radio and television stations. Bateman is looking into mobile digital recording devices to use with future podcasts.

Bateman said the College of Education is holding conversations with Apple representatives about the link between emerging technologies and education, and podcasting has been a part of that conversation. Bateman and Sam Stern, dean of the College of Education, will be traveling to Apple's Cupertino campus in August to continue their conversations on the subject.

For more information go to www.oregonstate.edu/education/podcasts/ or contact Bateman, assistant to the dean for technology, College of Education, at chester.bateman@oregonstate.edu, or 737-8836.