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G Suite for Education: Explained

(and a FREE Google Doc!)

If you are new to Google, or if you want to become a Google Certified Educator or Trainer, you should learn the basics of G Suite for Education. (It will be on the Level 1 exam.) What is it? What does it include? How does it help teachers and students?

First of all, if you haven't heard the new lingo, Google Apps for Education is now G Suite for Education . We've all had to adjust and get used to the way the new program rolls off the tongue. With a new name, Google has helped further define its products and purpose. Want to know the difference between an education account and your personal? Keep reading...

Below is an explanation of the G Suite for Education program for teachers.

Get This Information in a Google Doc

I've created a Google Doc with the entirety of this blog post. Feel free share with your colleagues. CLICK HERE to make a copy of: What is G Suite for Education?

What is G Suite for Education?

G Suite for Education is a suite of tools that can help you increase opportunities for critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity, all while supporting the learning objectives that you have for your students.
Requirements for G Suite for Education
G Suite for Education provides G Suite Business features for free to nonprofit K-12 and higher education institutions in the U.S. and other countries. To qualify for G Suite for Education, your organization must be one of the following:

K-12 or higher educational institution, nonprofit, accredited by a generally accepted accreditation body, OR

For non-U.S. countries, educational institution accredited by a generally accepted accreditation body.

G Suite for Education tools are:

These tools are already used by millions of students in schools around the world. Of course, free is great, but the best thing is that these tools are relevant to students, easy to use, and open doors to many new ways to learn.

What Applications are Included in the Core Services?

The G Suite core services are the meat and potatoes of the suite, and you will find these are probably where you spend the bulk of your time. Each one of these can be managed and enabled/disabled through the admin console. (Ex: Some schools choose to use a different email program and will disable Gmail for their users.) The core services include:

Google Classroom: is a free application designed to help students and teachers communicate, collaborate, organize and manage assignments, grade and give feedback, go paperless, and much more! Note: (For information about getting started with Google Classroom, check out my Teacher's Guide to Google Classroom , and all of the Google Classroom resources on Shake Up Learning .)

Gmail: Gmail is a free, web-based email platform that offers SPAM protection and is completely ad-free in G Suite for Education accounts.

Google Drive: Google Drive allows you to store your files securely and access them from any device, as well as create, open and edit your files. You have UNLIMITED storage space with G Suite for Education.

Google Calendar: Google Calendar is a free, web-based calendar platform that is completely ad-free in G Suite for Education accounts.

Google Vault: Google Vault lets you retain, hold, search, and export your organization's mail and chat messages. You can also search and export your organization's files in Google Drive. (Free for G Suite for Education)

Google Docs: Google Docs is a free, web-based word processing tool that allows you to create and edit documents online and collaborate in real-time.

Google Sheets: Google Sheets is a free, web-based spreadsheet tool that allows you to create and edit spreadsheets online and collaborate in real-time. It is great for data analysis and organization.

Google Forms: Google Forms is a free, web-based form tool that allows you to create forms, surveys, and quizzes that collect response information in real-time.

Google Slides: Google Slides is a free, web-based presentation tool that allows you to create and edit presentations online.

Google Sites: Google Sites is a free and easy way to create and share websites and web pages. (Please note: The NEW Google Sites is tested on the Google Certified Educator Level 1 and Level 2 exams.)

Google Hangouts: Google Hangouts is a free communication and collaboration tool for text chats, video calls, and screen sharing.

Where Are the "Other" Apps?

There are many other applications and tools available through G Suite. The ones listed above just happen to be the "Core Services." Other applications can be accessed, managed, and enabled/disabled through the admin console. The list of other applications, or what they call "additional services," products, extensions, add-ons, can really go on forever, but include some of our favorites like Google Chrome , , Google My Maps , Google Groups , Google Voice , , etc.

How is This Different From Your Personal Gmail/Google Account?

Has your school gone Google yet? If not, you may be wondering, "What's the difference between using a personal account and a G Suite for Education account?" A LOT!!! ( Here's a full comparison .) First of all, I do not recommend using personal Google accounts in a K-12 setting. The creation and control of student accounts are crucial to organization and classroom success. Google Classroom is really what pulls it all together and gives teachers a way to manage assignments and improve class communication and collaboration. And third, G Suite for Edu offers UNLIMITED storage space! Hooray!

Why Do You Need to Know All This?

For one, if you plan on taking the Google Certified Educator Level 1 exam, you will be asked questions about G Suite for Education. Maybe you don't feel you need to know this, but it is helpful for teachers to better understand administrative decision-making and to know what to request when it comes to G Suite. Sometimes certain applications are not enabled because no one has asked to use it. Other times, certain applications are disabled because they require users to be 13+.

Yes! G Suite Tools Can Be Enabled for Specific User Groups

Don't let IT drive curriculum and instruction! There are applications that do fall under the COPPA 13+ rule , or there may be other reasons that applications have not been enabled for you and your students. The idea that a G Suite application is all or nothing, meaning everyone has it-or everyone doesn't, is simply not true. G Suite allows us to control access by user groups. Schools may want teachers and secondary students to have access to Gmail, but not give Gmail access to K-5, and that is possible through user groups. Let's remember to use these tools for the betterment of our students and to increase learning and engagement.

G Suite for Education Support

Coming Soon! The Google Certified Educator Academy!

Ready to get become a Google Certified Educator in 2017? Shake Up Learning will be offering online courses to help you prepare for the Level 1 and Level 2 exams. If you joined the list above, you will be the first to know about these courses and when they will be released. Stay tuned for more! The home for information about the new Google Certified Educator Academy can be found here: GoogleCertifiedEducator.com.

How to Pass the Google Certified Educator Exams!

Looking for more Google Certification resources?

I am always working on new and FREE Google Certification resources. See more below or visit the Google Certifications resource page.
All Google Certifications Google Certified Educator Resources Google Certified Trainer Resources
Connect with Shake Up Learning

Email me directly: Kasey[at]ShakeUpLearning.com

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© Shake Up Learning 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

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What is G Suite for Education? | What You Need to Know! | Shake Up Learning

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PinterestG Suite for Education: Explained (and a FREE Google Doc!) If you are new to Google, or if you want to become a Google Certified Educator or Trainer, you should learn the basics of G Suite for Education. (It will be on the Level 1 exam.) What is it?

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Differentiate Instruction with Google Classroom

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Differentiate Instruction with Google Classroom

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How to Differentiate Assignments in Google Classroom

I am often asked about differentiation strategies that will work in the Google Classroom application. Google Classroom is a very robust tool that can make differentiating digital assignments a reality. I often present on digital differentiation, and until now, differentiation in Google Classroom has been more of creative thinking than what teachers and students truly need.

(UPDATED January 24, 2017!) The issue some teachers face when giving an assignment in Google Classroom is that the assignment must be given to every student in the class. There is currently is no way to give different assignments to students. Every student receives all of the assignments. So when several groups of students are working collaboratively on different assignments within the same class, management in Google Classroom can get tricky. Differentiating assignments in Google Classroom is possible with a little creative thinking. Below are three ways that will allow you to differentiate assignments in Google Classroom.

NEW Feature! Give Assignments to Individual Students or Groups

Yay! Teachers rejoice! One of the features we have been waiting for is finally available-the ability to give assignments to EXACTLY who you want, meaning an assignment meant for one student, a few, or even groups of students within a Class in Google Classroom. This is a huge update and one that I couldn't wait to get my hands on.

Teachers often need the flexibility to differentiate assignments for students based on ability, learning styles, reading level, etc. In this case, the teacher chooses the assignment for each student/group of students.

To give an assignment to individuals or groups, simply use the new drop-down menu to select the students that you wish to receive the assignment (+>Create Assignment>All Students drop-down list). Here you can select, "all students," or just select the individual or groups of students you want to give the particular assignment to. Voila! Isn't that beautiful?

Of course, this also offers teachers ways to give special assignments inside Google Classroom, like independent study, special types of make-up work, extra credit, and genius hour assignments.

Now differentiation goes far beyond just giving different students different assignments. It should be much more purposeful and meaningful than that! Another common way to differentiate is to offer student choice. This could be the choice of topic, product, or process, depending on your assignment and learning goals. Below are a few more ways to introduce choice inside Google Classroom.

Tips for Creating Differentiated Assignments in Google Classroom

Numbering these types of assignments could get confusing. For your own sanity and organization, consider not just a number, but a group or individual identifier in the assignment title. (Ex: Group 4, Special Assignment, Extra Credit, EC Sarah Jones, or come up with your own consistent naming convention.)

Get specific with your directions! The more information that is available in Google Classroom, the fewer excuses students have for not completing the assignment and the fewer interruptions you are likely to have.

Attach a rubric if you have one.

If these are collaborative/group activities, designate a group leader in the assignment. The group leader is responsible for creating any new files and turning these in through Google Classroom for the entire group. This method will help alleviate some of the file ownership issues in Google Classroom when trying to turn in work. Consider asking students to submit a reflection at the end of group work to help you get the whole picture of the learning process.

Student Choice

Student choice is a great way to differentiate and allow students to take a more flexible learning path while tapping into interests and learning styles. It is possible to use the Google Classroom platform. Luckily, it's very easy to build in choice in Google Classroom assignments. If you create an assignment with multiple Google files where each student gets a copy, you will have a file management mess. You will end up with files that are not used, and students confused on which file they should turn in through Google Classroom. To avoid this mess, try one of the options below. (See my post on Interactive Learning Menus for another interesting way to give students choice.)

Create the assignment with an assignment number and detail the choices in the directions and/or in an attached (view only) document. (Note: This is also great way to use digital learning menus and choice boards.)

You can also attach links to digital tools that may be offered as a choice for completing the assignment. (Example: Using one of the digital tools below, create a digital story retelling, "The Tell-Tale Heart," in your own words. Then add links for the digital tools you would like them to choose from, like Powtoon, WeVideo, etc.)

Students will then choose to attach their own files to complete the assignment (as shown in the animation above).

Long-Term Projects and Modifications

Another solution that some teachers are using to keep track of group work or even modify work for individual students is to create separate classes inside Google Classroom for each group, or even for individual students. (Note: This is really only worth the time if these groups are long-term, or reused. Also a great option for students who require regular modifications.)

How do you differentiate assignments in Google Classroom? Please share in the comments below! I know there are some experts out there that can help us all learn!

Learn all about the new updates to Google Classroom and take your skills to the next level. This course will give you everything you need to get started using Google Classroom and best practices to help you make the most of this tool.

Perfect for beginner to intermediate skill levels! Consider this your video guide to Google Classroom!
Click here to learn more and to ENROLL TODAY!
Other Google Classroom posts you may like:

© Shake Up Learning 2018. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

18 Challenges for Teachers in 2018 FREE eBook!

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Digital Differentiation with Google Classroom | Shake Up Learning

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PinterestHow to Differentiate Assignments in Google Classroom I am often asked about differentiation strategies that will work in the Google Classroom application. Google Classroom is a very robust tool that can make differentiating digital assignments a reality. I often present on digital differentiation, and until now, differentiation in Google Classroom has been more of creative ...

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Google Drive Resources

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© Shake Up Learning 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright policy

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© Shake Up Learning 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com.

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Understanding the difference between apps and extensions is confusing for new users.

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From what I can tell, Chrome apps are just web applications that are registered with Chrome's Web Store (Gmail, e.g.). They're basically just glorified bookmarks. Google seems to have introduced them in order to make their browser more "operating system"-like, in preparation for tablets running Chrome OS. Since Chrome OS won't have any native applications apart from Chrome, they need some way for you to be able to "install" applications... even if those applications are just websites.

Extensions can actually affect the way that the browser behaves (ad blocking, e.g.). They can add buttons to Chrome's toolbars, intercept web requests, change the DOM, etc.

Please refer to the following link: (chrome app vs extension). It basically says that there are two kinds of apps: hosted and packaged. Hosted apps are glorified bookmarks. But packaged apps provide you with a somewhat best of both worlds features- of both extensions and apps.
Extensions of course extend the core browser functionality providing little or no additional UI apart from what is already provided by chrome.

quoting from http://www.chromeplugins.org/extensions/chrome-web-apps-extensions-spot-the-difference/

(as the explanation is very good)

Major Differences Between Chrome Extension and Chrome Web Apps

One of the major differences between Chrome extensions and web applications is their location. Majority of the Chrome extensions can be downloaded from Chrome Extensions Gallery whereas Chrome Web Apps can be installed from Chrome Web Store.

Another major difference between Chrome extensions and web apps is the fact that while extensions are used to enhance the functionality of the Chrome Browser, web apps run within the browser having a different user interface. Unlike web applications, extensions have little or sometimes no UI component.

From a technical perspective the major difference between Chrome Apps and extensions is the presence of "launch" parameter in apps which indicates Chrome to show when user starts an application installed by him/her.

Stack Overflow works best with JavaScript enabled

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Difference between Chrome Apps and Extensions

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Join the Stack Overflow Community Stack Overflow is a community of 7.0 million programmers, just like you, helping each other. Join them; it only takes a minute: Sign up From what I can tell, Chrome apps are just web applications that are registered with Chrome's Web Store (Gmail, e.g.).

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RCPS Tech Toolkit - Accessibility Resources

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The Techy Coach - YouTube Channel with Google Apps Tutorials.

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My videos focus mainly on helping educators understand and integrate technology tools. Hopefully the things you find here help you in a pinch.