While many adult learners may feel hesitant to voice their opinions in a classroom, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) adults are especially aware that they are functioning in a critical, heteronormative society. However, in a climate of respect and safety they can gain confidence in sharing their true selves and opinions. An additional means of accomplishing this goal is through Web 2.0 technologies. This essay describes how LGBTQ communities have used podcasting to gain voice and empowerment on a mass scale and how lessons learned form this experience can be utilized in our adult learning classrooms. Web 2.0 new media is a vibrant opportunity to change classroom spectators to vital participants, content creators, and empowered adults.
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