Video Podcasts as a Learning Tool for Science and Communication

Developing communication skills is essential for undergraduate students to effectively convey ideas and collaborate, crucial competencies in professional environments. This study explores the implementation of video podcasts as a learning tool in the online interdisciplinary course Science, Technology, and Society. The analysis includes 100 students from diverse areas, including architecture, art, design, social sciences, humanities, engineering, business, and medicine. The activity aimed to enhance students' communication skills, understanding of scientific thinking, and engagement through team-based research on paradigm-shifting scientists. A Likert-scale survey revealed high median scores for activity evaluation (6.3/7), skill development (6/7), and recognition of scientific impacts (6.5/7), reflecting strong positive perceptions. Qualitative feedback emphasized that students from non-scientific disciplines recognized the importance of scientific thinking in the advancement of humanity. Results support the potential of video podcasts as a promising pedagogical strategy for fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and active learning. Recommendations for applying this methodology in diverse STEM educational contexts, including face-to-face courses, are also discussed.