Those out there wanting to spruce up their teaching statement with methods of technological advancement, take note of the results of a recent study published in Computers and Education.

In this study by McKinney, Dyck and Luber of the Department of Psychology at State University of New York, the authors tested whether students learn more from a traditional style lecture versus a podcast of the same lecture.

Using two groups (32 per group), students were then tested on the material of the lecture, with the podcasters averaging higher scores that those who actually attended the lecture.

The authors strongly point out that this should not mean the replacement of lecturers with podcasts, or an excuse to skip classes. The main advantage they point out gained by the podcasters, was when they re-listened to the lecture multiple times.

The study does raise some interesting points regarding the future of teaching. Could podcasts provide a means to provide lectures from the very best teachers for all, or just an excuse to play with your iPod or iPhone too much?

Those of you interested in checking out available online courses available through the iTunes U, click here