Google has recently announced the release of new classroom resources designed to enhance the learning experience for students with diverse needs. Among these resources is a new “reading mode” for Chrome, which is specifically aimed at individuals with dyslexia and ADHD.
The reading mode feature allows users to personalize the reader view that appears in the browser’s side panel. The mode eliminates visuals and videos that can cause distraction and focuses solely on the text, making it easier for students to concentrate and absorb information. In addition, the reader can customize the typeface, font size, spacing, text color, and background color, creating a reading experience that is tailored to their individual needs.
In addition to the reading mode, Google has also introduced a new feature that allows teachers to incorporate interactive quizzes into YouTube videos. This feature enables students to respond to questions and receive quick feedback. If necessary, they can revisit the video and try again. Teachers can use this information to gauge students’ progress and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly.
Another exciting addition to Google’s classroom resources is the Hand Raising Gesture Detection feature, powered by AI, which has been added to Google Meet. The AI technology is capable of recognizing when a student raises their hand physically or in real life, automatically selecting the hand raise icon, and sending the user to the main grid. This feature ensures that every student has the opportunity to participate actively in the class, regardless of their physical location.
These new classroom resources are part of Google’s ongoing commitment to making education more accessible and inclusive for all learners. By providing tools that cater to diverse needs, Google is empowering educators to create a more engaging and personalized learning environment. These resources have the potential to transform the way students learn and help them develop the skills they need to succeed in the digital age.