Resources
Starting the year off right with Google Classroom
On the best recognized resources online for Google Classroom, and as well, other G-Suite and EdTech, is Eric Curts. We featured him on our site last spring. To check out his ENTIRE VIDEO SERIES on Google Classroom (great for beginners through to experts) click HERE. As well, I've directly linked to first two videos in the series below. To browse through Eric's expansive collection of G-Suite for Education resources, click HERE.
Google Docs OCR scanning to Accessible Docs
Great new video shared by Assistive Technology Specialist, Barb Welsford, about the built-in OCR scanning capabilities in Google Docs. She has then also shown how the built-in accessibility features in a device (which would include a Chromebook), can make content more accessible for all students.
Immersive Reader Extension for Chrome
Another new video shared by Assistive Technology Specialist, Barb Welsford, about the Immersive Reader Extension for the Chrome web browser that has been enabled for all students and staff in GNSPES.
More information on using Google Meet
Eric Curts, a helpful Technology Integration specialist has authored a series of short YouTube videos that give helpful tips and suggestions on setting up and running a successful Google Meet with students OR with staff.
Much of this is summarized in a Google Slide Deck here.
End-of-year tips for Google Classroom
When asked earlier this week, I found several good resources for teachers who are looking at getting their "house in order" for the upcoming end of year in Google Classroom. One of the resources I recently tweeted out the link to a blog post (and audio podcast) from Ed Tech leader, Kasey Bell. Below, I have added a brief video created by another Ed Tech teacher, who goes through several end-of-year tasks. Finally, I've also added another video (albeit from last spring) from Ed Tech expert, Eric Curts.
Google Meet Grid View extension for Chrome
If you are hosting a Google Meet, the NEW Grid View extension for Chrome is a must for seeing a large group of participants (students or staff).
How to Assign Groupwork in Google Classroom
Courtesy of SSRCE Literacy Coach, Grades 4-12, comes a timely video from Jeff Knutson from Common Sense Education that shows teachers how to use Google Classroom's assignment feature to create and manage group projects for students.
Different Google Meet option for students WITHOUT Internet (who have phones)
If you are hosting a Google Meet, the creator of the Meet can +Add People by having the meeting CALL participants. Watch the accompanying video to see how easy it is. The number that it dials from is Canadian (and seems to be always from London, Ontario) and works on landlines too.
Classroom teachers can use the Self Service Admin to change student passwords
Did you know that logging into your GNSPES account at gnspes.ca gives you the ability as a classroom teacher to set/update the @gnspes.ca passwords of the students you teach. Here's how CLICK HERE.
HELPFUL TIP: Click on the Self Service Admin icon and login with your OWN gnspes credentials.
Looking for a G-Suite App, Chrome Extension or Other Digital Resource for students?
Use the Google form on the left to submit requests for G-Suite apps, extensions or proposed digital resources to be reviewed by the Provincial DRA (Digital Resource Assessment) Committee for G-Suite (GNSPES). Before submitting a NEW request, you should examine the list below.