"Podcast", an on-line platform for people to upload their creative works in audio format, is gaining popularity on the campus. Campus Beat Podcast, set up by the Language Centre, is an open platform for HKUST students and staff to write and broadcast their stories in English.

Since its launch in 2006, 10 30-minute episodes have been aired on Campus Beat Podcast and the download rate for each is 600. Some 200 students who enrolled in the Language Center's Campus Beat module have contributed stories to the Podcast.

Students are free to create their segments on topics ranging from University news, faculty members' features, entertainment,,fashion, to Hong Kong's current issues. "Some stories are very well produced, including the writing, voice, background music and sound effects," said Sean Mcminn, Producer of Podcast and an instructor at the Language Centre.

Through participation in the production of English audio programs, students' motivation in learning English was enhanced. "Your English pronunciation will improve as you hear your own spoken English," Chemistry student Chi-wai Hui, pointed out. Kelvin Lee, a Marketing student also enjoyed the freedom to create his own audio work and the satisfaction from the positive feedback to his program.