Exploring iTunesU

i want to do this optional part first, to get the consumer's perspective before trying to produce a podcast. i downloaded iTunes a couple years ago and listened to a few podcasts then and over the years, but never really got into subscribing or checking back to see what was new.

i've just now explored some classical music options in the general store part (you have to pay for them, it appears), then went to iTunesU where i checked out a couple categories -- Language offerings as well as Teaching and Education. i downloaded a couple randy pausch talks but haven't figured out yet where they downloaded to. (later found them under my Movies.)

i'm figuring out that Radio is another way to catch streaming radio stations (i usually tune in by way of Realplayer). channel surfing is even easier, since i don't have to save favorite stations, and the menu on iTunes Radio is already set up! but there are fewer choices overall.

i'm also looking at iTunesU with an eye to how we might develop the UK site. i went to see what various institutions were doing. the ones labeled New are content to start with 12-20 offerings. it strikes me that it would be good to develop the look and feel of "covers" so that UK has a recognizable identity. it also helps to design these so they are colorful and appealing (and legible!!) as thumbnails. i suppose UK PR will handle this side of things.

just figured out how to get the timestamp of my postings into the right timezone via Settings! yeah!

before closing out here, i need to report that i've been playing with my Apple Remote for the first time -- viewed a couple movie trailers, figured out the various menus, and actually watched a vodcast that i'd subscribed to way back when -- Ask the Techies. i just watched their presentation on Firefox 3 and picked up a new trick or two!