Influenza 2010–2011: ACIP Vaccination Recommendations (4:41), Centers for Disease Control

Influenza 2010–2011: ACIP Vaccination Recommendations (4:41), Centers for Disease Control

Recommendations Presented in an Audio Podcast

A podcast is an audio file that contains information on a particular topic. Although some podcasts include video, most use only audio. The range of podcasts available online is very large, from sports and entertainment to news and information, and everything in between. Some podcasts offer recordings of radio stories and programs; other podcasts are created by people or organizations to convey their knowledge and expertise about certain subjects; still others may be created by individuals as a hobby or an outlet for their interests. Listeners can download podcasts to audio players or listen to them online.

This podcast was created by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. The CDC provides information for medical professionals and for the general public. This podcast is directed toward physicians who have questions about the annual flu vaccine.

After listening to the podcast, consider the question(s) below. Then “submit” your response.

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1. Why present these recommendations in a podcast rather than in written form? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the podcast format?

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2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a name that many in the United States will recognize and trust. What else could this podcast include to gain the audience’s trust?

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3. Whether it is for a speech, a written report, or a podcast, the introductory section needs to provide important background information. What background information does the first section of this podcast (0:09–0:56) provide?

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4. In a written report, many experts recommend that your introduction should identify the content that is to come in the subsequent sections. Some call this an “advance organizer.” Advance organizers are especially important when the audience is listening but does not have a transcript or an outline to follow. Write a sentence or two that could serve as an advance organizer for this podcast.

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5. The H1N1 virus was called swine flu by many in the general public. Why doesn’t this podcast refer to it as swine flu?

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6. When people are listening to information and not reading it, it can be challenging for them to keep track of lists in short-term memory. Listeners can keep track of lists more easily if they know how many items will be in the list. Shorter sentences are also easier for listeners to follow than longer sentences. Revise the information stated in 1:53–2:23 to make it easier for a listener to understand and remember.