Google’s Education Updates: New Reading and Interactive Features for Students and Teachers

Google is rolling out a range of new updates and features, specifically designed to enhance learning experiences for both students and educators. Some of these features are aimed at helping those with dyslexia or ADHD, while others aim to improve the overall functionality of online-based learning. In this article, we will explore some of the updates that have been introduced or are soon to be rolled out.

Chrome’s New Reading Mode

Chrome has recently introduced its own version of Reading Mode. This new feature allows users to customize their sidebar and strip away any distracting elements. Unlike other traditional reader modes, this sidebar appears on only one side, allowing users to still see the original form of the page. Users can remove images and videos, adjust the visual elements like typeface, font size, spacing, and colors of text and background. The reading mode stems from Chrome’s Read Anywhere mode which first appeared last year. Students can use this mode to process information more efficiently by eliminating distractions.

Interactive Questions on YouTube Videos

Google Classroom now allows educators to include interactive questions in YouTube videos that students can answer while watching the video. This new feature aims to give teachers valuable feedback on how well their students are understanding certain topics. Teachers can also share the created practice sets with other verified educators, making it easier for everyone to get access to relevant materials for students.

AI-Powered Hand Raise Gesture Detection Feature

Google Meet now includes an AI-powered Hand Raise Gesture Detection feature that automatically activates the Hand Raise icon when a student raises their hand in class. This new feature makes online-based learning even more natural for both teachers and students, encouraging participation in class discussions.

Copresenting During Lectures

Google Meet also now enables two teachers or instructors to manage slides together during a lecture or lesson. This update allows educators to collaborate more effectively during their online lessons and ensure that the material is presented effectively to the students.

Google’s Practice Sets

Another new feature aimed at making learning more interactive is Google’s Practice Sets. This AI-based tool allows educators to turn their existing teaching content into interactive assignments that offer more personalized support for students. With this feature, teachers can easily create quizzes or exercises that are tailored to each student’s individual needs.

Transcription Support for Screencast

Google has recently expanded the recording and transcription support of Screencast to a dozen new languages. This update includes languages such as Spanish, Swedish, Italian, and Japanese. With the inclusion of these languages, Screencast can now reach a wider audience, making it easier for users who don’t natively speak English to access its features.

Demo Tools for Automation

Lastly, Google has recently introduced demo tools that allow users to animate clicks and taps during their online lessons or presentations. These demo tools also highlight keyboard shortcuts on the screen, helping students follow along with the material more easily.

In conclusion, with these new updates and features, Google is transforming the digital learning space by making it more interactive, tailored and accessible for both teachers and students. It provides a range of tools that help educators create engaging lessons and activities in digital formats. These new functionalities make online-based learning more efficient and effective for everyone involved.

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