Google AI in Education: Gemini Tools for Teachers & Students

Google Integrates Gemini AI and Enhanced Tools into Education

On Monday, Google unveiled a suite of updates designed to more fully integrate its Gemini AI and other artificial intelligence-driven applications within educational settings.

These introductions, presented at the ISTE edtech conference, encompass over 30 new AI tools specifically for educators. Furthermore, a dedicated version of the Gemini application tailored for educational use was launched, alongside broadened access to Google Vids, its collaborative video creation platform, and additional functionalities for managed Chromebooks.

Addressing the Rise of AI in Learning

This initiative signifies a substantial investment by Google in the edtech sector. Educators are currently navigating the challenges presented by the increasing prevalence of AI tools, including AI chatbots and services offering assistance with academic work.

Contemporary students are increasingly inclined to seek assistance from platforms like ChatGPT with their assignments, sometimes even delegating the completion of tasks entirely. Higher education institutions, meanwhile, are evaluating the efficacy of plagiarism detection software in identifying content generated by AI.

Google asserts that “responsible AI” has the potential to foster “more engaging and personalized learning experiences” when implemented alongside traditional, teacher-led instruction.

Gemini AI Suite Now Available for Educators

Following initial announcements last year regarding the integration of Gemini into classrooms, Google announced on Monday that the Gemini AI suite is now freely accessible to all users with Google Workspace for Education accounts.

This includes access to over 30 new features. Teachers can now leverage AI to brainstorm ideas, develop lesson plans, and customize learning materials for individual students.

New Features and Capabilities

Over the coming months, educators will gain the ability to construct interactive study guides utilizing the AI research tool, Notebook LM, in conjunction with their existing classroom resources.

Furthermore, teachers will be able to create customized instances of the Gemini AI, termed “Gems.” These will function as specialized AI assistants, providing support to students who require additional help or wish to deepen their understanding of a subject.

This approach effectively redirects a common student activity – seeking explanations or answers from AI chatbots – towards Google’s own AI technology, which has been specifically trained on the teacher’s curriculum.

Real-time support for the AI-powered reading companion within the Read Along in Classroom tool will soon be available to teachers.

Access to Google Vids, the AI-powered video creator, is also being expanded to all Google Workspace for Education users. Teachers can utilize this tool for creating instructional videos, while students can employ it for assignments like book reports.

Enhanced Tracking and Security

A range of new features are being implemented to monitor student progress against learning objectives and skills, provide analytics on student performance and engagement, enhance the security of Gemini user data and Gmail data, manage access to AI tools like Gemini and Notebook LM, and improve control over Google Meet waiting rooms.

In addition, Google has introduced Class tools, a new teaching mode for managed Chromebooks. This feature enables teachers to directly connect with students through Google Classroom and share content – including videos, articles, slides, and quizzes – to their screens.

These tools can be adapted to a student’s native language and are designed to promote focus by restricting browsing to designated tabs.