1. Google Classroom Basics
Google Classroom is a free learning platform for managing coursework and communicating with instructors. Here's how to get started:
- Join a Class – Click the "+" icon, select Join class, and enter the code from your instructor.
- Check the Stream – The Stream tab shows announcements, upcoming deadlines, and discussions.
- Classwork Tab – View assignments, quizzes, and materials. Use View your work to track submissions.
- Submit Work – Open an assignment, attach a file or create a Google Doc/Slide directly, then click Turn In.
- Private Comments – Ask the teacher questions privately under each assignment for clarification.
Tip: Install the Google Classroom mobile app for push notifications and quick submissions.
2. Google Workspace Tools
Google Workspace is a suite of productivity apps you already have with your school Gmail account. Core tools include:
- Google Drive – Cloud storage for files and folders. Organize by subject and enable sharing permissions carefully.
- Docs – Word processor with real-time collaboration and version history.
- Slides – Presentation tool with templates and embedded media support.
- Sheets – Spreadsheet for data analysis, formulas, and charts.
- Forms – Create surveys or quizzes and automatically collect responses in Sheets.
- Meet – Video conferencing integrated with Calendar and Classroom.
Practice: Create a shared class folder in Drive and set view-only permissions for classmates.
3. Core Digital Literacy Skills
Being digitally literate means using technology safely, efficiently, and responsibly.
- Cybersecurity Awareness – Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Recognize phishing emails and suspicious links.
- Information Evaluation – Check the source, author, and date before trusting online content. Compare multiple references.
- Online Etiquette – Communicate respectfully in emails, chats, and forums. Avoid ALL CAPS unless necessary.
- Data Privacy – Control who can view your files, keep personal info private, and understand privacy settings on social platforms.
- File Management – Create clear folder structures (e.g., "1stSem/Programming") and back up important files regularly.
Remember: What you share online can remain visible for years—think before you post.
4. Practice Activities
- Join your class's Google Classroom and post an introduction on the Stream.
- Create a Google Drive folder structure for all your subjects and share a screenshot with your instructor.
- Draft a one-page research summary in Google Docs and use the Comments feature with a classmate for feedback.
- Schedule a mock video meeting in Google Meet and invite a friend using Calendar.