Most people are very familiar with Google and the various features it has to offer. But have you considered using Google to enhance your homeschool? If you’ve never migrated further than your Gmail account, then you are in for a real treat. In this article, we’re going to look at Google’s features that can be used to help you create a digital homeschool all just a click away.
Benefits of Using Google to Homeschool
With the majority of today’s society in mind, just about everyone is digital in some form or fashion – even the two year old holding their moms phone while grocery shopping. Although we should be mindful of the amount of screentime our children are getting, there are times when it can be used for your benefit. One of those benefits is using some of Google’s features to help homeschool your children, especially those approaching high school and college.
Another benefit is Google has the ability to easily connect together on different devices. This means your child’s calendar can be synced with yours, as well as other features (Drive, Dropbox, etc.). This will come in handy when you read about the specific features that I highly recommend you start using in your homeschool today.
How does easier recordkeeping and staying organized sound? With several of Google’s features, you’ll be able to keep up with attendance, grades, make transcripts, and more. Your middle and high school-aged children can also use them to keep up with assignments, due dates, work to be completed, and more!
How to Use Google to Enhance Your Homeschool
Whether you’re a techie family or not, adding these features to your iPhone, Android, tablet, and/or computer will be easy. You’ll love the versatility of having your own virtual homeschool.
Google Classrooms
Until just a few years ago, this feature was reserved for registered school systems only. Now, anyone with a gmail account can take advantage of this feature – including you! While there is A LOT you can do with Google Classrooms, the most used and convenient aspects for homeschoolers are:
- Creating lesson plans.
- Creating calendars.
- Adding files.
- Making announcements.
- Scheduling activities.
- Setting up future assignments.
- Communicating with your child.
These attributes and others are doable because of this platform’s built in Docs, Drive, Calendar, and Gmail accounts. While there may be a bit of a learning curve, you can access a tutorial here. Google classrooms are especially beneficial for parents who are working and homeschooling.
Google Docs
Remember Microsoft Word? Google Docs is like this except accessible offline. You can enjoy full digital writing features such as typing a report, creating tables, taking notes, and the like. Use Google Docs for older children who are learning to type, exploring with writing/typing research papers and book reports, or having to create a resume.
When a “note” is started on Google Docs, it is accessible by all who have access to that gmail account. The doc can also be saved as a .doc, .docx, and/or a .pdf. The writer can also make it editable, which comes in handy for proofreading and making corrections right on the doc itself. Conveniently use the highlighter, sticky notes, and comments section all within the same doc. The changes can even be seen in real time.
Google Sheets
This platform looks and acts much like Excel except better. You can use it to keep things in an orderly, table-like fashion which comes in handy for taking attendance and keeping grades. Just like Google Docs, you can share with other people and give them editing rights. Consider using it to help your child “check in” and “check out” of school.
Google Slides
Looking for a quick and easy way to help your child create a presentation for an assignment? Say hello to Google Slides. Although it doesn’t come with all the pizazz as PowerPoint, it still has animations and transitions that when paired together can make one pretty cool presentation.
Google Earth
Take geography class to new heights with Google Earth Education. When your child can see maps and locations in the present time, it can help them visualize the concepts that often stop at the textbook level. Your children can also create their own projects that highlight their neighborhood, town, or completely different place around the world. Other benefits include:
- 3D imagery.
- The ability to visit buildings.
- Offers a historical view.
- Very detailed.
- Free!
Google Play (for Education)
Another one of the most common Google platforms is Google Play Education. You can access tons of educational games, books, and videos to enhance your child’s education. You can browse material by grade, age, subject, or keyword.
Conclusion
As you can see, Google offers many platforms that can be used to create your very own virtual homeschool all while keeping you and your children organized in the process. To keep from getting overwhelmed, consider choosing one platform and using it until you and your children get used to it. Then, add another! Happy Google-schooling!
Also on the blog: How to organize your homeschool during the pandemic and Self-Care for Homeschool Moms