Module 5 – Slides, Groups and Meet

[Pat Brennan]

*Please Note:  Participants who use Word (Or equivalent) to write their assignments and then copy and paste these into the forum may find that additional extraneous formatting is brought across. To avoid this, either right click in the post window and choose ‘Paste as Plain Text’ or use the keyboard shortcut. Alternatively, you can first paste the content into Notepad (Or similar text editor) and then copy it from here to the topic window.

ASSIGNMENT

Use Slides to create a short interactive digital story and share it with other participants.
Consider how the Workplace tools (Groups, Classroom, etc.) and Meet can enhance teaching and learning inside and outside the classroom. Reflect on this forum as a reply to this post (250 words min) on your own practice over the past number of years and consider the implications for your practice going forward, and the suitability of the Google Workspace tools for a blended approach.

[Colm Carney]

Over the past number of years, I’ve found Google Workspace tools—especially Classroom and Docs—to be incredibly useful in how I teach and how students learn. What originally started as a way to manage and share assignments has grown into something much more powerful: a more blended, inclusive, and student-centred approach that works just as well at home as it does in the classroom.

One area where I’ve seen a real difference is in teaching writing genres. Whether it’s narrative, persuasive, report writing, or procedure, Google Docs makes it so easy to embed rubrics directly into the assignment. This gives students a clear sense of what’s expected right from the start and allows for more consistent, transparent marking. It also encourages self-assessment—skills that are essential for growth. The children get better feedback and can make changes on the spot, which is brilliant for engagement.

I’ve also been exploring the flipped classroom approach through Google Classroom, and it’s opened up so many possibilities. Posting videos or readings as homework frees up time in class for collaboration, problem-solving, and discussion. The shift in classroom dynamic is noticeable—students come in more prepared and we can get to an activity or hands-on task quicker.

Looking ahead, I can see myself using these tools more and more. They support the development of key 21st century skills like collaboration, independence, and digital literacy. They also align really well with the principles of Universal Design for Learning—allowing for flexibility, differentiation, and accessibility. All in all, they make learning more meaningful, more engaging, and a lot more manageable (and I’m probabaly more organised because of them too!).

Link to Google Slides task – https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1u8h6Oo58Wbo3oWR4kbz8WHaQS-kKECESYKd42onRKzg/edit?usp=sharing

[Eoghan O’Neill]

Hi Colm,

Thank you for your post here and for your engagement throughout the course. Thanks also for sharing your link to the slideshow, outlining the potential uses of the Google tools in 6th class. I think your last slide is particularly relevant, where you chart the progression of how we might get our children to engage with these tools and this style of learning experience. It is all about taking small, manageable steps and working towards being able to collaborate in real-time on real-life projects. However, there are a number of steps to take before that is a possibility and you have charted this very clearly in your submission.

[Niamh Butler]

It’s great to hear such positive feedback about Google Workspace from a teacher who has used it. There are definitely more opportunities to use the tools further up the school but I see the advantage of using Docs and Sheets throughout the school. Google Workspace encourages a teacher to be organised and being able to access everything remotely is also a big plus. I am looking forward to gaining confidence with both Sheets and Docs before progressing onto the other tools.

[Treasa Mitchell]

That’s a great point about embedding the rubric right into the word document for writing genres Colm.  It’s such a clear method of displaying your W.I.L.F. and helping pupils stay on track.

[Niamh Butler]

The Workspace tools allow for the organisation of all resources needed by a class teacher and by the Admin in a school. Google Workspace promotes collaboration across the whole school community.

Pupils can collaborate in real time with each other and receive immediate feedback from their class teacher. Parents can receive summaries of their child’s progress and expectations on assigned projects and tasks, although this is more geared towards the senior end of primary.

As a teacher in a junior school who is new to Google Workspace I see Google Workspace as a way of promoting highly effective practice in teaching and learning and across management of the organisation.

Google Drive be used to store worksheets, short term and long term plans and policies for all teachers to access. Teachers can edit when necessary.

Google Docs allows teachers to edit documents. I could see theis as a great way of reviewing policies in a school as  teachers could work on them in their own time. Also great for drafting agendas for staff meetings where all teachers have access and can add to

Google Sites could be set up to for e-portfolios for each pupil.

Slides allows for links and videos to be embedded into presentations which makes learning more fun and targeted, and supporting hands on teaching.

Google Calendar allows staff to share dates and times of events.

And Google Forms would be great for surveuing the whole school community in relation to SSE.

I have used Word in the past to record and monitor student test results across the year. Having completed this course, Google Sheets and the GradeBook is the tool I look most to using next year.

Here is a link to my Google Slides assignment:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1OsqubMFwlPbZZSYmRmIovLlz_EBNxeXjgrRZ1B_y4dY/edit?slide=id.p#slide=id.p

 

• This reply was modified 7 months ago by Niamh Butler.

[Catherine Breen]

I have found that there is so much more to google workspace than I had known about.

I am looking forward to working on google classroom next year

[Louise Redington]

Thanks for all this. There are so many resources on Google wok place.

[Lina Uokiene]

As someone who is also new to Google Workspace, I found your post really encouraging—especially your practical ideas for how each tool can be applied in a junior primary setting. Like you, I’ve mostly relied on Word and PowerPoint in the past, so learning how to use Google Slides, Docs, and Sheets in this module was a big step forward for me.

I completely agree that Google Workspace has huge potential to streamline organisation and promote collaboration, both in teaching and across whole-school planning. I hadn’t thought about using Google Docs for policy review or meeting agendas until you mentioned it, but I can definitely see the value of being able to work asynchronously with colleagues. It saves time and promotes more meaningful input from everyone.

I also created my first Google Slides digital story during this module (I used The Three Little Pigs) and was really impressed by how interactive and engaging it can be, even for junior classes. Embedding links, images, and videos really brings lessons to life.

Your mention of Google Sheets and GradeBook stood out to me too—I’ve only scratched the surface, but I’m looking forward to exploring how they can help with tracking progress and supporting assessment next year.

Thanks again for your detailed reflection—it’s motivating to see how others plan to use these tools in a real school setting.

[Laura Prendergast]

Google calendar is very handy especially in a large school where many events are happening. It allows the Principal and teachers to reach every staff member in a quick manner.

[norma Walsh]

In our experience in the last few years we’ve been using Google but not to its full capability and this is something I want to embrace in September. We have invested in Chromebooks and I think the use of Google classroom is where we will best use the Chromebooks in the classroom.

I teach fifth class and while they are very used to using Google Docs and Google slides to research and complete projects. I do think they could be further progressed by having their own accounts and personal Drives to save and retrieve their work which is an essential skill to have moving forward into secondary school.

While I do believe Google Meet and Google Groups do have a place in certain schools it is not something we will use in our school. We have a very effective way of sending information to groups and therefore we would not need Google groups. Hopefully we will not need Google meet as I am very hopeful we will not have any future school closures such as we did during covid-19. Saying this Google meet is a very useful tool to have an understanding of for a blended classroom.

I do look forward to using Google classroom which will enable me to assign work and especially group specific work to either English language learners or children with specific learning needs. I think it will allow the children to work with more independence and will enable them to stay on task and should they need to review learning material it would be at hand.

Google classroom would make it very easy to share a class choice board which would enable children to choose how to present their work on a specific topic ensuring total inclusion. This is the interactive Google slide I have included here.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xiSnkRfgyZzHPlNT6J6NXjALYKDCXkeb/view?usp=drive_link

 

[Eoghan O’Neill]

Hi Norma,

Thank you for your post here and for your engagement throughout the course. The reality is that Google (and Microsoft for that matter) have so many useful tools in their suite of projects that we all feel like we are not utilising them to their full capacity. Hopefully this course has provided some ideas on how one or two additional Google tools can be used to enhance your teaching and administration next year. Setting up personal Google accounts is an important step in achieving this and opens up many possibilities, including the use of Classroom and potentially the development of digital portfolios.

[Eugenia O Malley]

I also feel I have not been using the Google Workspace Apps to their maximum capacity.  A class choice board on Google Classroom is a great idea. It offers students autonomy and voice with project work which would boosts motivation and engagement.

Our school have individual google accounts for students. Students have a great sense of ownership over their drive, tracking their learning and project work. It also makes things easier for collaborating with peers and sharing docs and slides when it comes to group projects. I definitely thinks it opens the students open to a lot of opportunities to develop their digital learning skills.

[Catherine Breen]

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ztGALgXoiySMwFx8RUSXzeHyCdwi6oGD9fMdvWLukRY/edit?usp=sharing

Digital technological platforms have significantly enhanced my pedagogical strategies and instructional methodologies across both academic and professional domains. Google Drive and collaborative digital repositories serve as primary platforms for resource sharing and interdisciplinary collaboration within institutional frameworks.

Google Slides provides sophisticated multimedia presentation capabilities, enabling the development of interactive and engaging instructional materials that facilitate student learning and cognitive engagement.

Virtual communication platforms like Google Meetings offer a more personalised and interactive approach to professional communication, supplementing traditional communication methods such as telephonic interactions. These digital interfaces provide enhanced interpersonal connectivity and communication efficiency.

Google Docs represents a transformative collaborative document creation platform, facilitating seamless multi-user document development and real-time collaborative editing within educational environments.

Initially uncertain about the implementation of Google Classroom within my institutional context, professional development has provided comprehensive insights into its strategic integration and pedagogical potential.

Advanced technological extensions such as Loom and Brisk have demonstrated remarkable utility in professional workflow optimisation and content creation.

Future professional development strategies will encompass engagement with international educational technology communities, including participation in Irish Google Classroom networks and comprehensive exploration of global educational technology discourse through platforms like YouTube. Additionally, I anticipate collaborative resource development with professional colleagues to enhance instructional methodologies.

Google continues to demonstrate technological innovation while maintaining a fundamental commitment to student-centred learning paradigms, representing a progressive approach to educational technology integration.

[Eugenia O Malley]

A digital story on slides that I would use to remind students about behaviour and responsibilities on returning to school in September.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1vt-tUhx0MmKZI9OEYzY3PZf8mxN7qu1AsxpkXVQu8C4/edit?usp=sharing

Workplace tools and Google Meet enhance teaching and learning in several different ways. Over the years, I have used Google Classroom as a means of assigning homework and projects, as well as for students to submit their work. This course has taught me how to use it to its full potential, by exploring features such as the feedback tool, grading logs, and the ability to develop quizzes and assessments using Google Forms.

Google Slides are beneficial not only for providing visual support to students when introducing new content but also as a platform for students to produce and present their research and knowledge. Both Google Slides and Docs are user-friendly, easy to navigate, and excellent tools that foster and develop essential 21st-century digital skills.

Google Meet is a great way to get students engaging with guest speakers. It serves as an efficient means of bringing the wider community into the classroom. Students can also interact with one another on Google Meet, enabling real-time collaboration and helping them become skilled communicators while working on shared projects or presentations.

Going forward, I plan to use Google Workspace tools to facilitate more engaging and appealing learning experiences that support students’ digital development and prepare them for the demands of the modern world and workforce. I also hope to use it to further support my own teaching, by making greater use of the apps’ effectiveness in collecting data from students, supporting both Assessment for Learning and Assessment of Learning, and organising students’ learning more efficiently and effectively.

[Aine Ní Fhainin]

As a school we have been using Google workspace for the past number of years but like other posters have mentioned I definitely havn’t been utilising the benefits of all the different aspect. While I would have thought I was competent in using google slides and google docs this course has shown me a number of other ways to use them for working with the children as well as for teachers’ own organisational purposes.

I really like the idea of having a template in google docs or something embedded into the doc that the children can then access once I share it with them in their google classroom. Up to now I have been allowing the children to open new google docs for different assignments and tasks but I think it could be handy to have a doc with a template ready for some tasks.

The children in our school have their own google accounts and are set up on google classroom. It is great for students to be able to collaborate on group projects etc.  However I do think there is a lot more scope for maximising the use of all the different aspects the google workspace has to offer. I look forward to using google slides a lot more with the children as opposed for just staff surveys/ parent surveys/ bí cineálta etc.

One aspect which we do not use is google meet and it is one that I don’t think primary schools would have any need to use. Perhaps this might change for secondary schools.

The link to my google slides assignment is here

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1feWd_f0WVBzc-xHxYIRosv1LR4_K9yAuZC_9-_TA5z8/edit?usp=sharing

[Brid Aherne]

I too  really like the idea of having a template in google docs that the children can then access once I share it with them in their google classroom. Some children can find it difficult to decide what to include/how to lay out a project.

[Aisling Higgins]

Totally get where you’re coming from! I’ve been using Google Workspace for ages too, but honestly, I wasn’t using half of what it can actually do. Like you, I thought I had Docs and Slides figured out, but this course really showed me some handy tricks. The idea of using templates is such a game changer, I used to just have the kids open a blank doc every time, but having something set up already makes everything so much easier. They know what to do, and it saves loads of time. I’ve started making simple templates with spaces for answers, instructions, all that and using the “make a copy for each student” in Classroom is just brilliant. I can’t believe I wasn’t doing that before! Definitely going to keep using that idea from now on, both for the kids and to keep myself organised too.

[Kate Dempsey]

Absolutely, I couldn’t agree more! I was in the same boat—comfortable with the basics of Google Docs and Slides, but had no idea how much more efficient things could be with just a few tweaks. Like you, I always had students start with a blank document, but using templates has been a total game changer. It gives students structure right from the start and takes the guesswork out of tasks. Plus, using “make a copy for each student” in Google Classroom has streamlined everything—I’m not chasing lost files. It’s great to discover how helpful these tools can be when used well!

[Orla Tynan]

The idea of having a template would be very beneficial especially for those children who struggle to get started at a task.I will look at starting to use this also.

[Helen Healy]

Over the past few years, I haven’t really used many Google tools in my teaching apart from Gmail for communication with staff and parents. However, recently I have been thinking more about how tools like Google Slides, Docs, and Forms could support my work with my primary class.

For example, I can see how Google Slides would be really useful for my teaching inputs. At the moment, I often use the whiteboard or printed flashcards, but creating Slides would allow me to add visuals, videos, and step-by-step explanations all in one place. This would be especially helpful for subjects like SESE and English where images and prompts make lessons more engaging.

I also think Google Docs could be great for group work or writing tasks. At the moment, pupils write in their copies and we share ideas verbally, but using Docs on tablets or Chromebooks would allow groups to work together on the same piece of writing or project in real time. This could encourage collaboration, especially for my quieter students who might prefer typing ideas rather than speaking in front of the class.

Google Forms is another tool I am keen to try. I can see how Forms could be used for quick quizzes to check understanding at the end of a lesson or even as a fun way to gather pupil voice and opinions on what topics they enjoy.

Looking ahead, I think using Slides, Docs, and Forms will support a more blended approach in my teaching. Even if I continue to prioritise hands-on, active learning in class, these tools can enhance lessons, provide variety, and help prepare my pupils for the digital skills they will need in the future. This year, I plan to start small by creating simple Slides and Forms to build my confidence in using them effectively. Then this will expand to the class creating and using the full suite of tools.

Slide on handwriting for infants, teacher notes added;

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/107VAyMft-OQ9oS1vd__XuF41t45_hliK/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=113093719533368916225&rtpof=true&sd=true

[Brid Aherne]

 

Link to completed assignment – create a short interactive digital story

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1shIpgt7m9hPX9mCbdBay-JumjaB3tfJdWdpkLrejQ0A/edit?usp=sharing

Google Workplace tools help teachers share lessons, give feedback, and keep students organized. They make group work and class discussions easier. These tools save time and help students stay focused in class. It also lets students learn from home. Teachers can give assignments and share videos. This helps learning continue even when students are not in school.

Over the past few years, I’ve seen how digital tools can make learning more flexible and engaging. Students have enjoyed having to option to complete projects digitally on docs or slides.  I like the idea of using google classroom to improve the home school link. I would be nice for parents to see some of the activities completed by the kids. Using google forms as a tool for assessment is also something I will use more.

[Pat Brennan]

Hi again Brid,

Thanks for sharing your digital story, unfortunately, I wasn’t able to access the link due to permissions. Possibly, you may need to update the sharing settings ‘Anyone with the link can view’ so others can open it without needing access requests.

That said, your post highlights some great uses of Google Workspace tools,  through digital projects, home-school communication via Google Classroom, or using Google Forms for quick and effective assessment.

A suggerstion, if you are using Workspace across your school, you might consider setting up a mentoring/digital champions group. Staff who are confident with the WorkSpace tools could support others, share tips, and help better embed digital leraning more acroos the whole school.

[John Reidy]

Fully agree how it is of benefit to the children and the teacher. For the children it creates a more interactive lesson which will enhance learning. It will also appeal to all different styles of learning such as visual learners. For teachers, it is a one stop shop where you can create and save your resource which can be used year on year.

[Aisling Higgins]

Over the last few years, I’ve found myself using Google Workspace more and more in my teaching, and honestly, I can’t imagine managing my classroom without it now. Tools like Google Slides, Classroom, Meet, and Groups have made it so much easier to connect with students, keep things organised, and make learning more engaging both in school and at home.

I’ve recently started creating short interactive stories using Google Slides. It’s a fun way to bring topics to life and gives students a chance to explore learning at their own pace. You can add links, videos, and even questions, so it’s not just a presentation it becomes part of the learning. It’s also really easy to share with the class through Google Classroom. Below I created a link to a digital story with interactive activities aimed at junior/senior infants.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ocBEu6VuFoTxnw1hltK2-fz-dZE9MPBIXuxD-9h69OM/edit?usp=sharing

Google Meet has been great for quick check-ins, group discussions, and even helping students who are out sick or need extra support. Using Groups has made it easier for small student teams to work together, especially when doing projects or peer feedback.

Looking back due to online learning during COVID, these tools have helped me move towards a more blended learning approach mixing face-to-face teaching with online resources. It gives students more flexibility, and I can tailor things a bit more to suit different needs. Going forward, I plan to keep using and improving how I use these tools. They’re user-friendly, and most importantly, they help keep students engaged and included no matter where they’re learning from.

[Theresa Dempsey]

Great work on google slides. Love the Kahoot quiz – very engaging !! Definitely agree that a more blended approach is needed going forward.

[Eoghan O Maolduin]

I agree that it’s hard to imagine the classroom without some of these tools. The levels of organisation it allows for really helps in the day to day running of the class and allows for more time focussing on teaching and learning than admin.
Slides is something that I will utilise more as well, adding links etc and being able to send the slide directly to the students means they can look through it at their own pace and revisit things if necessary.

[Lina Uokiene]

This was my first time using Google Slides to create a short interactive digital story, and I must say it was surprisingly intuitive. I chose The Three Little Pigs as my story, and what stood out to me was how easily I could integrate images, transitions, and even hyperlinks to make the experience more interactive for young learners. While I have used other digital tools before—such as PowerPoint and Canva—Google Slides offered the added advantage of seamless sharing and collaboration through Google Workspace.

Creating a digital story helped me appreciate how tools like Google Slides can support literacy, creativity, and student engagement, especially in a primary classroom. Children can click through the story, choose different paths, or even create their own endings. I can also imagine using it for sequencing tasks or as a digital portfolio tool.

Looking back on my teaching practice, I relied more heavily on printed materials and basic presentations. However, moving forward, I see the benefits of using Google Workspace tools like Google Classroom to assign and collect interactive work, Google Groups for peer collaboration, and Google Meet to connect with pupils or parents remotely. These tools support a blended learning model, which is becoming increasingly important in today’s flexible, sometimes hybrid, learning environments.

In short, this exercise has opened my eyes to new possibilities. While I’m still learning, I feel confident that with a bit more practice, tools like Google Slides and the broader Workspace suite can significantly enhance teaching and learning—both inside and outside the classroom.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Gb8JQCHVrkuDWn5rSVbnvzA-_EmXX1HcgL1PgsbGWu4/edit?slide=id.g371b75901ed_0_156#slide=id.g371b75901ed_0_156

[Eoghan Riordan]

I created a short interactive digital story for my ASD class to prepare them for swimming lessons: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1NuhQ5Wy21iYa0tERVdNSjTLPNP0g3OljusHwSchkGJA/edit?usp=sharing

Over the past number of years, I have used some Google Workspace tools like Google Docs, Slides and Meet, mainly during school closures. Google Meet helped me to stay connected with pupils and parents through online meetings and check-ins. It was a useful way to keep communication going when we could not be in school.

Until recently, I had not used Google Classroom, but taking part in this course has helped me see how useful it can be for teaching and learning. I now see how it can help to organise lessons, share resources, and provide feedback to pupils in a clear and simple way. I look forward to using it more confidently in the future.

I have used Google Docs and Slides with pupils to support digital skills and encourage creativity. These tools allow children to work on projects, write stories, and present their learning in a way that is engaging. I have also found Google Drive helpful for organising my own planning and teaching materials.

Going forward, I see that Google Workspace can support a blended learning approach, where pupils can access learning at school and at home. It is helpful for children who may be out sick or who need extra time to complete tasks. It also encourages independence and allows pupils to take more ownership of their learning.

Although I am still learning, I can already see that Google Workspace offers many simple and effective ways to improve teaching and learning. I hope to keep building my skills and using these tools more often in my classroom.

[Louise Redington]

Here is a slides document on The Student Council

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1zMmbD8hiCF4CUN7VqdA7RL8q-rf0LmBH/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104696666210056777985&rtpof=true&sd=true

 

I have learned how Google Slides can be used effectively for content creation. I now know how to use the drawing tool across all Google apps, which enhances creativity and presentation.

I also understand the value of Google Meet. I know how to create a Google Group that can include members from across the entire school. I plan to use Google Meet to connect with other schools, allowing students to collaborate through features like breakout rooms.

I appreciate how Google Meet integrates seamlessly with Google Calendar, enabling easy access to meeting links directly from calendar events. This will be particularly useful for scheduling and conducting parent-teacher meetings where appropriate.

Additionally, I will use Google Groups for communication with teachers. It saves time by allowing messages to be sent to all members at once. Google Groups supports collaboration, as all messages are stored and accessible at any time. This transparency ensures that all communication is visible to group members. Documents can also be shared within the group, making them easily accessible whenever needed.

 

Google Workspace tools are well-suited to a blended learning approach, supporting both in-person and online education. They make it easy for teachers and students to communicate, share content, and collaborate from anywhere. The tools are flexible, easy to use, and help create a consistent learning experience across different settings.
I hope to use them in my teaching going forward more and more.

[Adrienne Darby]

I agree Louise that the integration of Google Meet with Google Calendar is a gamechanger in our time-stretched work days.  You make a very good point in relation to transparency and visibility of Google Groups and the importance of this to support effective communication in school.

[Treasa Mitchell]

Over the past number of years, my teaching practice has been greatly enhanced through the use of Google Workspace tools. Tools such as Docs, Drive, Sheets and particularly Slides have helped create a more interactive, collaborative, and flexible learning experience for my pupils, while also streamlining my planning and communication with colleagues.

I’ve always been a little disappointed with the limited themes available on Slides which is why I sought out alternatives on TPT. My Classroom Procedures Slides are not my own design but one that I edited. However, I also downloaded some free weather themed images from TPT to create a set of slides for Gaeilge.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1gG9062X1YZ-lh4KAIOm8TEkAlYpZr3C5/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115197036343134112200&rtpof=true&sd=true

Google Slides has become a central focus in many of my lessons. It allows for visually engaging presentations that can be easily adapted to different learning needs and styles. Beyond its use for direct instruction, I’ve found Slides especially valuable for creating games and interactive activities—such as digital flash cards for phonics and vocabulary practice or matching and sorting tasks for Gaeilge. I create the slides and then print 4 per page on card (or sometimes 6 or 9 for older classes). I also print full-page slides, cut them out and stick some magnetic tape on the back to use them on my whiteboard. I also use these for Cluiche Kim. I print a few sets of a smaller version on white card and give these to the children to play matching games. It’s a nice small group activity for reinforcing foclóir at the end of a lesson as well as a quick revision tool for every now and then.
Looking ahead, I see even more potential for a more collaborative approach, using Workspace tools to foster collaboration with parents and staff. The ability to share Slides and other resources instantly with colleagues will save valuable time and promote consistency across classes. Overall, Google Workspace offers a suite of tools that support effective, modern teaching and learning practices that are sustainable and scalable in a range of contexts.

[Caroline Flynn]

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1b9mAOpKFULeWIpbW2IGyglep-lKwC3OOwp17eV25CCA/edit?usp=sharing
This is a link to a short slide show created in google slides that could be used during Gaeilge class when teaching the topic Bia
Although I have a school google email address, I have not used any of the google workspace tools in the past. I have mostly used Word and Powerpoint and have taught students to use Word and Powerpoint and save pieces created to USB key.
However google workspace tools have some great advantages for our school especially for administrative purposes. I would still have a lot of reservations about giving students email addresses though!
Clearly Workspace tools allow for the organisationof all resources needed by a class teacher and by the Admin in a school. Google Workspace promotes collaboration across the whole school community. Google Drive could be used to store worksheets, short term and long term plans and policies for all teachers to access. Teachers can edit when necessary. Google Docs allows teachers to edit documents. This is great for staff meetings, agenda, green school meetings, student council meetings, policies etc.Google Sites could be set up to for e-portfolios for each pupil depending on school digital learning policy. Slides allows for links and videos to be embedded into presentations which makes learning more fun and targeted, and supporting hands on teaching.Google Calendar allows staff to share dates and times of events, organize, talks, matches etc.And Google Forms would be great for surveuing the whole school community in relation to SSE. We have used this with parents for Bí cínéalta survey.

[Sarah Henry]

It’s really interesting to hear how you’re transitioning from Word and PowerPoint to exploring Google Workspace tools. We’ve found Google Forms particularly useful, especially when we surveyed staff on wellbeing—it was quick to set up, easy to analyse, and gave us valuable insights.

Your reflections on the admin benefits of Workspace are spot on. Tools like Drive, Docs, and Calendar really do streamline communication and planning across the school.

But I agree with your reservations about student email access, but hopefully the idea of limited use of Workspace tools can support collaboration and resource sharing in a safe and structured way.

• This reply was modified 5 months, 2 weeks ago by Sarah Henry.

[Eoghan O’Neill]

Hi Caroline and Sarah,

Thank you for your posts here. I agree with you around your reservations on student email addresses and feel that it is something that should be discussed with care. Luckily, your school admin can create ‘Groups’ – in my school I set up a group for students and one for staff. You can then control the access that each group has to the different Google tools. For students, access to gmail is turned off – therefore, their login details happen to be an email address but their account has no access to emails. Google are running an event for school Admins in September which I’m sure will go through so many other Admin tools – they’re currently advertising this event on their social media pages.

[Adrienne Darby]

Our first engagement with Google Classroom was when we were required to pivot to remote learning during the pandemic.  While many colleagues, myself included, were anxious about this new, albeit necessary approach, we were pleasantly surprised by this tool.  We have maintained engagement with Google Classroom ever since, though at a minimal level.  This course has really inspired me to embrace Google Workspace tools to enhance teaching, learning and assessment in my classroom. I envisage using Google Slides to promote greater collaboration among students including real-time collaboration. Google Slides interactive feature would mean I could embed videos to support or guide pupil research. In addition, I can leave real-time feedback for pupils directly on the slides.

Google Groups would be really useful for posting information on assignments as well as announcements and updates. This would eliminate any scenarios where pupils forget or mislay class information.  Pupils are familiar with this from the remote learning period. As an extension of this, I will now encourage pupils to post questions, engage in discussions and share resources.

Google Meet is very useful for real-time teaching during any school closures, but where I would like to extend the use of this tool would be inviting guest speakers to join our classroom virtually.  In doing this, we would not be limited to local guest speakers, but could invite speaker from overseas which would bring a whole other dimension to the classroom!

The slide deck I have created is called ‘A Journey Through Time’.  Pupils find themselves in Ancient Egypt and in groups, using their knowledge of this ancient civilisation, they must find their way home.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1NybbjoEyUR-yisIYdowaMu8t9Qk-RDBHO2xe7pvbPVw/edit?usp=sharing

[Theresa Dempsey]

Over the past number of years, particularly during and after the shift to remote and hybrid learning, I have come to rely heavily on Google Workspace for Education tools such as Google Classroom, Google Meet, Google Groups, Docs, and Slides to enhance both teaching and learning. These tools have proven invaluable not only in maintaining continuity of learning during school closures, but also in building more flexible, accessible, and collaborative classroom practices.

Google Classroom has become my central hub for organising assignments, communicating with students, and sharing resources. It reduces administrative workload, increases clarity for students, and allows for differentiated instruction through scheduled posts, attachments, and feedback tools. The comment feature enables ongoing formative feedback, which supports students in improving their work before final submission.

Google Meet has extended learning beyond the classroom. During remote learning periods, it provided a vital link between teacher and students. More recently, I’ve used Meet for parent-teacher meetings, after-school support, and virtual guest speakers, adding further dimension to classroom learning.

Google Groups allows for easy communication with specific student cohorts or staff teams, making collaboration and sharing of best practices seamless. Tools like Docs, Sheets, and Slides encourage real-time collaboration, even in group work outside of school hours.

Going forward, these tools will remain central to my practice, particularly in promoting a blended learning model. Students can revisit materials at their own pace, access learning at home, and take greater responsibility for their progress—supporting the development of self-regulated learners.

The implications for teaching are significant: more responsive instruction, better differentiation, and richer student engagement. For learning, students benefit from a more inclusive, flexible, and modern approach. Google Workspace supports a digital culture aligned with both the Digital Learning Framework and School Self-Evaluation (SSE), offering measurable evidence of improved learner outcomes and experiences.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1OaXWb4KOCOCE7fmRwpOLMbx8F12RJGhmVR-XmDAVNoo/edit?slide=id.g3703d3add20_0_0#slide=id.g3703d3add20_0_0

[Sean Walsh]

As I’m getting ready for my second year teaching a 4th class in a DEIS school here in Dublin, I’m buzzing with ideas on how to use IT. My first year was a bit of a whirlwind, but I got the hang of using Google Classroom to post homework and links. It was also used for quizzes as a form of assessment in the class through the use of iPads. It really showed me how vital it is to have tools that just work well.

The interactive digital story I’ve just shared is a big step for me. Last year, I was mostly giving the kids things to look at online. But this year, I really want to get them to create things. Slides isn’t just for putting up bullet points, we can use it to make our own stories, build projects together, or even create quizzes. It’s about moving them from just using tech to actually making stuff with it, which is a massive change for how I’ll plan my lessons.

Thinking about the year ahead and a blended approach, the Google Workspace tools are a perfect fit. I’m imagining using Google Meet for a virtual ‘mystery guest’ speaker to talk about their job, or even to link up with a class in another country. It’s a way to open up the classroom to the world

It’s all about making sure learning doesn’t just stop when the school bell rings. These tools give us the chance to keep the curiosity going and give the kids the kind of digital skills that they’ll be using for the rest of their lives. It feels like we’re not just teaching them facts anymore; we’re giving them the tools to be lifelong learners in a digital world, and it is great to see how creative they can be through the use of these tools.

 

Here is a link to my Google Slides presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1yp-_eZAcSJ4z0jTTkMNMTOp9kaUN9_UHWTey4fa-Fd0/edit?usp=sharing

[Eoghan O’Neill]

Hi Seán,

Thanks for this post and for your engagement throughout. You have raised many fascinating points, and it is great that the course has prompted you to think about how the children are using technology in the classroom. We certainly want to move away from them using devices for the ‘sake of it’. As you have alluded to, progressing to active rather than passive use of the technology is crucial in developing skills and ensuring progress across different curricular areas. This is a process, and you have identified some key areas that you can get started with. Wishing you the very best for the year ahead.

[Kate Dempsey]

As I look ahead to the new school year, I’m excited to make much greater use of Google Workspace tools to support both in-class and blended learning. Having spent time building confidence with these platforms, I now see how powerful they can be—not just for delivering content, but for enhancing engagement, organisation, and independent learning.

One area I’m particularly looking forward to developing is the use of Google Slides to create short, interactive digital stories. These can be used across different subjects—especially in literacy and SESE—to make learning more visual, student-led, and accessible. Students can click through content, respond to questions, and even choose pathways in a story. I see this being useful both in the classroom and as a follow-up activity at home.

Google Classroom will be central to how I manage learning going forward. I plan to use it to assign tasks, post resources, and share templates that guide students clearly through activities. The ability to “make a copy for each student” saves so much time and ensures everyone starts with the same structure. It’s also a great tool for providing private feedback and tracking progress over time.

Overall, Google Workspace offers a flexible, inclusive way to support blended learning. Going forward, it will play a key role in helping me differentiate tasks, support student voice, and stay organised in a job-share setting.

[Kate Dempsey]

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YHQtRYjwDOVF8TolUPmcKNjhiJ0_dKpSRxEc2AOGHMs/edit?usp=sharing

[Laura Prendergast]

In recent years I have used google workspace tools especially google classroom, google drive, and google groups into my teaching. These tools are a great way to share resources and collect homework and assignments. Google classroom allows pupils to access lessons, submit work, and receive feedback. It can integrate with word docs, slides, forms etc. The comment section allows for feedback on work submitted and the ability to post differentiated resources supports varying ability pupils.Google groups was an invaluable tool during covid school closures. It allowed collaboration outside the classroom where pupils could discuss ideas about work assigned and respond to each other’s questions, extending learning opportunities and promoting communication skills. Google drive has allowed me to create class, group & personal folders. Inside each folder I make subfolders for plans, lessons etc. I use colour coding and consistent naming so files are easy to find. I always starr important folders/files so they appear in my starred section. Google drive allows me to share with whenever I want to view the file. It’s easy to use with the classroom, I attach Drive files to assignments in google classroom and make a copy for each pupil so they each have their own editable version. Using the classroom’s grading tools allows me to give feedback and everything stays stored in Drive.

For older pupils, particularly secondary school pupils I can see how these tools could aid the teacher and where instructional content could be accessed before lessons and class time reserved for active problem learning.

I wouldn’t use slides often to create digital story but below is my digital story I created for this assignment.

Signs of Summer digital story.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1GX091DnXmaEb8SyRTCfFhrd35diXVk_lub33Op3CUMU/edit?usp=sharing

• This reply was modified 5 months, 3 weeks ago by Laura Prendergast.

[Michelle Fleming Byrne]

Lovely Summer display and something that can be saved and used year after year. All the pictures really bring it to life.

[Alex O Donochú]

When our school first introduced Google Workspace, I was quite slow to get started. I could see the potential, but the number of tools and features felt overwhelming. We had started with Seesaw but found it too limiting so switched to Google. I used Gmail and Google Docs occasionally, but mostly stuck to my familiar ways of planning and storing work. Over time, I began to use Google Workspace more and more, usually by necessity.

As I became more familiar with the basics, my confidence grew. I started experimenting with Google Slides for presentations, Google Forms for collecting information, and Google Classroom for sharing assignments. The more I explored, the more I discovered and begun to introduce it to my class. It also helped that we both chromebooks with allowed the students to access all the tools quickly.

Completing this course has further grown my confidence and knowledge. I’ve learned new ways to use tools I already knew, and I’ve discovered features I didn’t realize existed.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1MG7RwwIbO5DhTUHOBZgk1EUd4_iX7GlN-ts50Zc0x0c/edit?usp=sharing

Please find my Google Slides presentation I will use with my class in September.

• This reply was modified 5 months, 3 weeks ago by Alex O Donochú.

[Elaine Magee]

Over the past number of years, I have found Google Workspace tools to be increasingly valuable in supporting my 6th Class pupils. Creating an interactive digital story with Slides has been an exciting way to engage students. For example, my “Mystery of the Lost Homework” activity gave pupils the chance to make decisions and follow different outcomes, much like a “choose your own adventure.” This worked particularly well for my class because it encouraged critical thinking, problem-solving, and discussion, while also appealing to their love of interactive and digital tasks. I can see similar activities working in English for narrative writing, in History to explore alternative perspectives, or even in SESE to examine cause-and-effect in science.

Google Classroom has become central to my 6th Class routine. It allows me to share homework, weekly plans, and resources in one place. Pupils are now more responsible for their learning, and parents also appreciate the clarity. Google Groups have helped with collaborative projects, particularly when preparing group presentations or debating topics — an important skill at this stage of their education.

Google Meet was vital during school closures, but I continue to use it in 6th Class for group support, particularly before tests or project deadlines. It also gives me a way of connecting with parents and even inviting guest speakers to enrich learning.

Looking forward, I believe Google Workspace will remain integral to my teaching. It enables blended learning where AfL and AoL practices can complement each other, providing instant feedback and opportunities for reflection, while helping pupils prepare for the transition to secondary school with stronger digital and self-regulated learning skills.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1fWLoqnjJ2a_LBe67OyuREXjqMRXCjZuNoy3pIC3fPUg/edit?usp=sharing

 

[Annemarie GAUGHAN]

I agree, I had no idea there was SOOO much to explore and yes, at times it can appear very daunting. Of course, there are always those who are excellent at IT and the ones we always approach when in doubt. However, my confidence has definitely grown over the years and taking it little by little, I do believe I am gaining good knowledge and now have the confidence to share ideas with others.

I made several presentations, Yu can also get a presentation off twinkl and assign to group so they can edit it themselves, I used to do this with history posters to do with the famine, WW2, Easter rising etc.

Nuacht an Lae ó Rang a sé wa sanother good template on twinkl..made it look very professional when pupils had edited and added in their own information.

[Rónán Collins]

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1CwznzB1Um8ygVU0uZ7kcOQBoPBGvogeKaWUjO5trJLk/edit?usp=sharing

Over the past years, I have used various Google Workspace tools which have significantly supported both my teaching and leadership practices. Initially, I used Google Classroom as a straightforward platform for sharing assignments and resources, but my confidence and competence have grown as I explored the wider suite of tools. This course has greatly helped with this. For example, Google Slides has allowed me to create interactive and engaging lessons that pupils can revisit and work on at their own pace. While Google Docs and Drive have encouraged collaboration, even among younger learners, they quickly adapt to editing and giving peer feedback.

Google Forms and Gmail have strengthened communication with colleagues and parents, ensuring that we can get input on important changes. During periods of remote and blended learning, Google Meet proved invaluable for maintaining real-time connections with students, supporting not only their academic progress but also their sense of belonging. The wide variety of workspace tools has made differentiation more manageable. For example this year I have a mixed 4th/5th class, I can assign tailored tasks, provide timely feedback and monitor progress more effectively. It also links with apps very well such as duolingo, khan academy, etc

Looking forward, I feel I can get better at blending these digital approaches with in-person teaching. The tools offer opportunities for pupils to develop independence, digital literacy and collaborative skills, which seem increasingly essential in the workplace. As my own confidence grows, I feel better equipped to design meaningful learning experiences that balance structure with flexibility. Google Workspace is proving highly suitable for enhancing student engagement.

[Sarah Henry]

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1l2hOlEYg-k3llO0nQx48jKFGdEFxKP2L3jW3GAvFUXY/edit?usp=sharing

Over the past few years, my teaching practice has increasingly incorporated digital tools to support both in-class and remote learning. The shift to blended learning has highlighted the value of platforms like Google Workspace, especially Classroom, Groups, and Meet, in maintaining continuity, collaboration, and engagement.
Google Classroom will allow me to streamline communication, share resources, and manage assignments efficiently. It’s particularly useful for differentiated instruction and tracking pupil progress. Google Meet has been invaluable for virtual check-ins, parent meetings, and even small group support sessions, ensuring learning continues beyond the physical classroom.
Looking ahead, I plan to use these tools more strategically to support student voice, formative assessment, and collaborative learning. The flexibility of Workspace apps makes them ideal for a blended approach, where pupils can access materials, submit work, and receive feedback from anywhere.
To support this, I’ve created a short interactive digital story using Google Slides for 4th class pupils on the topic of The Vikings. It introduces key concepts and includes a discussion prompt to encourage reflection and peer interaction.
This kind of resource can be shared via Classroom, discussed in Meet, and extended through Docs or Jamboard. It’s a simple but effective way to make learning more engaging, accessible, and student-centered.

[Annemarie GAUGHAN]

I have used Google Workspace for a few years now…and would have considered myself as fairly confident in using it..Google Classroom activities with pupils (slides and docs), Drive and docs(collaboaration with staff). Calendar (sharing events with staff). Forms (SSE…surveys). However, there is a whole area of resources which I will be bringing with me after completing this course. .

A number of years ago (pre covid), our school received school support from PDST in the area of digital technology..creating digital portfolios as assessment was our objective. This was highly beneficial, we had already seen the benefits of using it with staff in policy formation, plans, timetables etc.I have since moved schools and would love to bring this info to my new school as a new set of ipads have been purchased and I feel they are not being utilized.

In the past when Ive set assigments for my pupils, I have provided feedback by leaving a comment or providing a short voice note. Pupils responded so positively to this and can make the changes instantly…the day of writing/ correcting in red pen is long gone! This is so much more effective. Also, presentatons can be shown on the whiteboard to highlight good practices or if children need to present in front of the class…this will stand to them when it comes to secondary school.

I am really looking forward to exploring other areas such as Google Sheets, Jamboard, Meet and GradeBook. I think these will add to the value of Google Workspace in the classroom. I also think they will encourage our pupils.. and create a student-centred approach.

[Annemarie GAUGHAN]

I have used Google Workspace for a few years now…and would have considered myself as fairly confident in using it..Google Classroom activities with pupils (slides and docs), Drive and docs(collaboaration with staff). Calendar (sharing events with staff). Forms (SSE…surveys). However, there is a whole area of resources which I will be bringing with me after completing this course. .

A number of years ago (pre covid), our school received school support from PDST in the area of digital technology..creating digital portfolios as assessment was our objective. This was highly beneficial, we had already seen the benefits of using it with staff in policy formation, plans, timetables etc.I have since moved schools and would love to bring this info to my new school as a new set of ipads have been purchased and I feel they are not being utilized.

In the past when Ive set assigments for my pupils, I have provided feedback by leaving a comment or providing a short voice note. Pupils responded so positively to this and can make the changes instantly…the day of writing/ correcting in red pen is long gone! This is so much more effective. Also, presentatons can be shown on the whiteboard to highlight good practices or if children need to present in front of the class…this will stand to them when it comes to secondary school.

I am really looking forward to exploring other areas such as Google Sheets and GradeBook. I think these will add to the value of Google Workspace in the classroom. I also think they will encourage our pupils.. and create a student-centred approach.

[Eoghan O’Neill]

Hi Annemarie,

Thank you for your post and for your engagement throughout the course. It’s clear that you are already well on the way with the introduction of Google tools in your school. I think we may have received the same digital portfolio CPD pre-Covid, and I can say it was what really gave us the push to move towards the use of online platforms for creating, storing and sharing samples of work. There are just so many tools out there to help us within the Google suite, many of which we are yet to discover. I wish you all the best and how you get on well with the ones you have listed.

[John Reidy]

Below is the link to a Google slide a created to encourage the children to talk about their hopes for the upcoming year using google tools such as docs and slides, which they are already familiar with.

6th class – Google Slides

In  my experience google meets, classroom and groups can enhance teaching and learning both inside and outside the classroom.

Inside the classroom, google classroom allow teachers to share resources, post announcements, and set up discussions. Pupils can respond to questions, submit work which will encourage active participation. Teachers can assign tasks at varying levels to support diverse learning needs.
Digital quizzes, polls, or forms provide instant feedback, helping teachers quickly assess understanding.

 

Outside the classroom meet can  enables virtual lessons or tutorials for pupils unable to attend school due to illness for a long period of time or due to school closures. Parents can be updated on learning activities through Groups or Classroom, creating stronger school–home links.

[Eoghan O Maolduin]

I have been using Google Workspace for a number of years now and felt fairly confident implementing various aspects of it into my classroom. This course however has really shown me its full potential. Using slides over the likes of powerpoint helps seamlessly integrate resources in one easy to access area. The templates on offer help children who may lack proficiency in the use of slides, while using blank templates gives space for more proficient children to become creative and I believe increases ownership of their learning.

This course has shown me how useful workspace can be for assessment. I definitely plan on using forms and sites moving forward as part of my AoL and AfL practices. Workspace tools are also very useful at staff level, for sharing, SSE and general day to day running of the school.

I have seen some concern over the use of email for students, which is understandable, however the safeguards around email are very stringent. I have given classes access to email in the past, initially just to log in to various apps and programs like read theory and epic books. I have also allowed for sharing of work both from teacher to student and vice versa. I believe it is a good way to teach responsibility online and that everything that is typed online leaves a footprint. No issue has ever arisen in one of my classes from allowing (strictly monitored) email access.

Here is a Slide I would use to introduce a new History topic, it is to be shared with the class and they can edit their own version.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/14O24oflBo0ZU9Z5o-GfhKgyhE-p9y_-ZhWVcMhqyFGE/edit?usp=sharing

[Anna Miller]

I agree with you re assessment. I intend to start using Forms this year as an assessment tool.

I also liked the KWL chart in your Slides presentation.

[Michelle Fleming Byrne]

It is clear that the google workspace tools and meet can enhance teaching and learning inside and outside the classroom.
Collaboration and group work can be brought to life using these tools. Children can work together on documents, slides and sheets. The class teacher can use these to monitor student progress and they can be shared with other staff members. This was highlighted in the task where we had to make a form- that was a useful assessment tool. Students can get instant feedback on their performance in these quizzes and further inform their studies.
The use of google slides adds some vibrancy to lessons and the added advantage of being able to add videos and pictures only adds to the meat of lessons. I have not used jamboard much but I welcome the idea of using it should I work in older classes. It would be a good way to share concepts, prior and eventually post lesson knowledge.
We live in a world where digital literacy is a necessary skill. By using google drive for resources and uploading to the google classroom, students are saved from having to manage a lot of paper and books. By being able to access their curriculum essentials online would make life easier!
I work in a junior school so I am fully aware that some of the google classroom tools are too advanced but should I ever move school I would welcome the huge possibilities it has. The fact that a deadline can be assigned linking it to the calendar for the pupils is very helpful for students as they manage their tasks.
During the covid era we all had a crash session on various online teaching methods. Google classroom is an excellent option for instruction online if children are learning at home. Google meet can be used as a virtual classroom to allow pupils to be taught and for discussion to take place. Meet sessions can also be recorded for pupils that missed a lesson. Teachers can upload slides of topics that were covered and pupils can look over them again to support them doing further work.
I made a google slides all about me for use with a new class. It is intended to help pupils to get to know each other in a fun way. They learn all about the Teacher first. I feel that when you let them in a little bit they feel more secure to share.
Here is a link to the document –
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/12Izr_bb9owbhPZpLvzOaOZdoQBQhc6DkqofEX9lfJUU/edit?usp=sharing

[Paul Munroe]

Thanks for your post, Michelle, and your reflection on the possibilities for how Google tools can make the teaching and learning process more engaging. I love your idea of the gert to know me slideshow at the beginning of the year. It’s a lovely way of getting to know your class and building good relationships. The children could even build their own slides, adding things like hobbies, fun facts, and a goal they have for the academic year.

[Orla Tynan]

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1V5jKQzykCWz4WTUUBXHfERgo4prcrnoinirKS9d-l9Y/edit?usp=sharing

This year we are aiming to roll out Google Workplace with staff and senior classes and I’m looking forward to using the workplace tools and Meet to enhance teaching and learning inside and outside the classroom. I love the fact that all these tools are so easily accessible and all in the one area. The supported video links and the opportunity to join the GEG Ireland is excellent while striving to keep up with the pace of the ever changing demands of teaching and learning in our society. Google Classroom offers us the access to a digital classroom, while groups gives us the opportunity for various groups within our school community to remain connected like having their own noticeboard within the group. I find Google Meet excellent for accessing many CPD courses and we aim to use it with our senior classes throughout the year also, to familiarise them with this useful product. Through the pandemic, I felt we used various tools sourcing them separately and linking them into emails to parents etc. It took us awhile to find our feet with the best delivery of teaching. At times the remote teaching felt very disorganised and difficult to keep track of at times.

After familiarising myself with all the Google Workplace tools/products through this course, I feel confident to use it through teaching and learning on a daily basis going forward. These tools will really assist with collaboration, communication and organisation with my jobshare colleague. We have used Google Drive in the past but I feel I haven’t utilised all the excellent features Google Workplace has to offer up until now.

[Anna Miller]

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1aTWVXWXxkbOzUgJFkvXDqMf0b0zOO9lU3n5glGx-JRA/edit?usp=sharing

I made a story on slides in the form of a blog post to be shared with parents.

I believe Google tools hold untold potential for enhancing teaching and learning inside and outside the classroom. In today’s era, the integration of digital tools are a given in the Irish primary classroom. I’ve always used Microsoft word for planning and simple docs but now I see the potential for Docs as it is so much easier to share and edit live documents. I love the idea of sharing planning responsibilities with other teachers in this way.

The millennial in me is so excited to see drawing tools integrated into Slides. I spend my childhood preparing for this on Paint! In all seriousness, it’s a valuable resource and I know the children would love being able to use this tool when making presentations.

I think since Covid, we’ve all realised we don’t need to be in the same room to make team meetings happen. Meet has great potential here because with job shares and busy lives, staff members can still collaborate online.

[Author]

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