Google introduced various new features during the Bett ed-tech event in the UK, covering aspects such as classroom management, accessibility, and AI-powered tools for crafting questions and lesson plans.
AI-powered features
Google currently enables teachers to incorporate questions into a YouTube video within its Classroom assignment framework. Soon, AI will play a role in offering question suggestions at various timestamps. This feature was initially introduced in June 2023, but during the initial launch, teachers were required to apply to access this functionality.
The company mentioned that the Practice Sets feature, utilizing AI to generate answers and general hints, is now accessible in over 50 languages. Additionally, educators can transform a Google Form into a practice set.
Furthermore, Google is introducing a new Resources tab designed to facilitate the management of practice sets and interactive questions posed during a video.
Moreover, the company highlighted that Duet AI, its generative AI tool for Google Workspace, is capable of aiding teachers in the creation of lesson plans.
Class management
Google announced that later this year, teachers will have the capability to create distinct groups in the Classroom. This feature will allow them to assign different tasks to each group. Additionally, they can leverage the speaker spotlight feature in Slides to craft a lesson with narration alongside the slide deck.
Educators now have the convenience of collecting signatures for approvals or contracts using the eSignature feature within Google Workspace.
Furthermore, the company is enhancing Classroom analytics, enabling educators to review statistics such as assignment completion and grade trends.
Accessibility
Google is introducing the capability to extract text from PDFs to enhance accessibility for screen readers on ChromeOS. Additionally, users can now highlight and have text read aloud in the Chrome browser.
Furthermore, Google is incorporating new features into Google Meet, including closed captions available in 30 languages and the ability to pin multiple hosts.
Chromebooks
The company announced the showcase of 15 new Chromebooks at Bett, set to launch later this year. Additionally, Google is working on an update for Chromebooks, allowing students to view their upcoming assignments directly from the home screen.
