Google for Education

Googling for education is a wonderful alternative to learning and teaching. The reasons are numerous. It enables Ls to extend their learning outside the classroom. It serves the various needs, preferences, and learning styles of Ls. They can get thousands of results by one search and find the answer to their question in an instant. It allows for anywhere-anytime approach to learning, increases engagement, communication and collaboration among and between Ts, LS, and parents to make sure that Ls take the ownership for their learning. Using technology prepares Ls for future career as almost all fields of life require skills of using technology. Ls become not only consumers but also creative producers.

To be able to create this stimulating environment we need to choose the appropriate tools which are free. Google offers apps for education which include Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Groups, Talk, Sites, Blogger, Maps, Google News, Analytics, etc. For example, science projects can be formed using google sheets, assessments can be administered using Google Forms, guests can be invited using Google Talks, and so on. It is no surprise that this rich environment can increase Ls’ engagement rate.

Security and privacy have always been an issue in education. With the help of Google’s Cloud, the institution can guarantee scalability, security and efficiency. Besides, all the data is in our control.

If we want to get started, we need to go to www.google.com/a/edu and sigh up. I found the support provided by the help center 24/7/365.25 really necessary and helpful. We can even stay up to date about the new features through Google Apps Release Calender. The introduction of chrombooks is also a great idea as they are easy to scale, customize and manage. There is also the possibility to connect with other schools, colleges, and universities using Google tools. The online training center will help to acquire skills for using the core tools in the classroom. Moreover, Google provides training for educators who are passionate about implementing new technologies in education.

Human mind is developing so fast, more than ever before, that it is challenging to manage to adapt to all these developments. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my instructor Dr. Madyarov for providing this fast array of educational opportunities which added a new platform to my teaching philosophy, hence to my teaching practice.