If you are looking for an easy learning management system for your classroom, then consider Google Classroom. As Google explains, “Classroom is a free web service for schools, non-profits, and anyone with a personal Google Account. Classroom makes it easy for learners and instructors to connect—inside and outside of schools.” This free platform makes it easy to store files, go paperless, and work with students throughout the learning process. Here is what you need to know to use Google Classroom:

Set Up Your Google Classroom

Google Classroom is available for free for anyone who uses a Google Apps for Education account. You will simply need to go to classroom.google.com. From here, you will follow the steps for creating your classroom. You will be able to add various classes and sections as needed. You have some freedom when it comes to the basic classroom design, such as class themes. After the class is set up, then it is time to sign your students up. They will need to sign in with the class code, which Google will generate. At this point, your Google Classroom is ready for use.

Store Class Materials

Use the About section of Google Classroom to store important classroom materials that students will refer to throughout the school year. For example, many teachers attach materials like a class syllabus, rules, or helpful lesson guides.

Additionally, Google Classroom works well to store the rest of your classroom materials. In Google Classroom, student work is not placed in a shared folder, so it is private between the teacher and the student. When it is time to grade student work, you will be able to access it wherever you have a computer and internet access.

Make Announcements

The Announcements Feature is helpful for sending out important notices. When you post an announcement, students will receive an email, and the announcement will post at the top of the classroom thread.

Create Assignments

Google Classroom makes it easy to create assignments paperlessly. For instance, when you create an assignment, you title it, add a description, and a due date. Additionally, you can attach multiple files such as images, step-by-step guides, or YouTube videos.

Use the Questions Feature

While Google Classroom does not have a test or quiz making tool, you can use the Questions feature to ask students multiple choice questions and receive scores immediately.

Grade Assignments

Teachers can also grade assignments within Google Classroom and comment on student work. Google Classroom also stores grades.

Integrate Apps

In addition to using Google apps with Classroom, you can also integrate other apps, such as Newsela and Quizlet, making your classroom a truly digital learning space.

As we close, it’s important to note that Google Classroom allows teachers to move from focusing on the result to collaborating with students throughout the learning process.