Employing Google Classroom tools for teaching foreign languages

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National Technical University of Ukraine

“Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute”

Employing Google Classroom tools for teaching foreign languages

Stavytska Iryna Vasylivna, Associate Professor, Ph.D.

Shalova Natalia Stanislavivna, Senior Lecturer

Korbut Oksana Hryhorivna, Senior Lecturer

Abstract

The article deals with the benefits of using Google Classroom as an online learning platform for teaching foreign languages. Particularly in the area of foreign language education, Google Classroom has become a widespread platform for online teaching. The platform gives teachers a variety of tools to increase students' interest and promote efficient learning. The advantages of using Google Classroom as an online learning platform for teaching foreign languages are examined in the article. Another benefit of Google Classroom is its multimedia capabilities. To create engaging content, teachers can use a variety of multimedia tools, including videos, audio recordings, and images. Since it allows teachers to give examples of language use in context, this can be especially helpful when teaching foreign languages. According to recent studies, using Google Classroom can increase student engagement and motivation. If teachers allow students to use technology and interactive tools, they are more likely to be interested in what they are learning. This possibility is offered by Google Classroom, which can help students enjoy and be more engaged in their language studies. Teachers must create a class and add students before using Google Classroom to teach foreign languages. After that, they can design assignments, give them to students, interact, and give them feedback on their work. Teachers assess students' progress, grade assignments, and administer tests and quizzes can use the platform. Google Classroom also supports blended learning, which combines online and in-person instruction. As it gives students more freedom to practice their language skills outside of the classroom, this method can be especially effective for language learning. Google Classroom's communication and collaboration tools are among its main benefits.

Teachers and students can easily exchange information, give feedback on assignments, and ask questions. Additionally, students can work together on projects while enhancing their language abilities through teamwork interaction. To sum up, Google Classroom is an effective tool for teaching foreign languages that can improve students' learning outcomes. It is the perfect platform for language learning due to its communication and collaboration features, multimedia capabilities, and support for blended learning. Teachers can use Google Classroom by following the guidelines provided to create an interactive and engaging learning environment for their students.

Keywords: Google Classroom, online learning, foreign languages, communication, collaboration, feedback, multimedia, blended learning, student motivation, teaching, assignments, assessments, online resources.

Ставицька Ірина Василівна доцент, к.п.н.

Шалова Наталія Станіславівна старший викладач

Корбут Оксана Григорівна старший викладач

Національний технічний університет України «Київський політехнічний інститут імені Ігоря Сікорського»

Використання інструментів Google Classroom для викладання іноземних мов

Анотація

У статті обговорюються переваги використання Google Classroom як онлайн-платформи для навчання іноземних мов. Зокрема, у сфері вивчення іноземних мов Google Classroom став популярною платформою для онлайн освіти. Платформа надає вчителям різноманітні інструменти, щоб зацікавити студентів і сприяти ефективному навчанню. У статті розглядаються переваги використання Google Classroom як онлайн-платформи для навчання іноземних мов. Ще однією перевагою платформи Google Classroom є її мультимедійні можливості. Для створення цікавого контенту вчителі можуть використовувати різноманітні мультимедійні засоби, включаючи відео, аудіозаписи та зображення. Оскільки це дозволяє вчителям наводити приклади використання мови в контексті, це може бути особливо корисним під час викладання іноземних мов. Згідно з останніми дослідженнями, використання Google Classroom може підвищити зацікавленість і мотивацію студентів. Якщо викладачі дозволяють студентам використовувати технологи та інтерактивні інструменти, вони, швидше за все, зацікавляться тим, що вивчають. Цю можливість пропонує Google Classroom, який може допомогти студентам бути більш залученими до процесу навчання. Перш ніж використовувати Google Classroom для викладання іноземних мов, викладачі повинні створити клас і додати студентів. Після цього вони можуть розробляти завдання, давати їх студентам, спілкуватися з ними та давати їм відгуки про їхню роботу. Платформа може використовуватися викладачами для оцінювання успішності студентів, оцінювання завдань, проведення тестування. Змішане навчання, яке поєднує в собі онлайн і очне навчання, також підтримується Google Classroom. Оскільки платформа дає студентам можливість практикувати свої мовні навички в позааудиторний час, цей метод може бути особливо ефективним для вивчення мови. Серед головних переваг Google Classroom - інструменти для комунікації та співпраці. Викладачі та студенти можуть легко обмінюватися інформацією, залишати відгуки про завдання та ставити запитання. Крім того, студенти можуть працювати разом над проєктами, одночасно покращуючи свої мовні здібності через взаємодію. Підсумовуючи, Google Classroom є ефективним інструментом для навчання іноземних мов, який може покращити результати навчання студентів. Це зручна платформа для вивчення мов завдяки функціям спілкування та співпраці, мультимедійним можливостям і підтримці змішаного навчання. Викладачі можуть використовувати Google Classroom для своїх цілей, дотримуючись рекомендацій наведених у цій статті, щоб створити інтерактивне освітнє середовище для своїх студентів.

Ключові слова: Google Classroom, онлайн навчання, іноземні мови, спілкування, співпраця, зворотний зв'язок, мультимедіа, змішане навчання, мотивація студентів, викладання, завдання, оцінювання, онлайн-ресурси.

Introduction

The way education is delivered has significantly changed in recent years as a result of technological advancements. Many colleges and universities now use online learning tools like Google Classroom. This platform is a great option for teaching foreign languages because it offers a variety of tools that can help with communication, collaboration, and feedback. The way that students learn has been completely transformed by the use of technology in the classroom, and Google Classroom is one platform that has completely changed how foreign languages are taught and learned. The platform offers an online classroom where teachers can set up and manage tasks, interact with their students, and keep tabs on their development.

Google Classroom is a website where teachers and students can communicate virtually for distance learning. Google Classroom is an online classroom that aids in managing learning, facilitating the creation of interactive lessons, and assisting students in extending their learning through the use of online resources. Many teachers were compelled to continue their classes online using this platform due to the demands of distance learning. Google Classroom can be accessed and used from a computer or mobile device, and it is free for all users, including teachers and students.

Research analysis

Google Classroom is an online platform developed by Google that allows teachers to create and manage classes, distribute and grade assignments, and communicate with students. According to Google (2023), the platform is designed to help teachers save time and stay organized while providing students with a centralized place to access course materials and collaborate with their peers.

Harmon (2021) conducted a study on the benefits and best practices of using Google Classroom for language learning. The study found that Google Classroom can help improve students' language skills by providing them with a variety of interactive tools and resources, including video and audio files, quizzes, and assignments. The study also highlighted the importance of using Google Classroom to create a sense of community among students, as it provides a platform for them to collaborate and share ideas.

Johnson (2020) supported a detailed guide on how to effectively use Google Classroom to teach a foreign language. The article discusses the importance of creating a structured course outline, using a variety of multimedia resources, and providing regular feedback to students. The article also highlights the importance of using Google Classroom to track student progress and adjust teaching strategies.

Google Classroom offers a range of features that can support language learning, such as online discussions, collaborative assignments, and multimedia resources. According to Stavytskyi & Urazgaliyeva (2018), Google Classroom tools can improve the quality of language instruction by providing students with a more interactive and engaging learning experience. For instance, teachers can create virtual classrooms and assign tasks such as writing assignments, quizzes, and video projects. These tasks can be completed individually or in groups, and feedback can be provided in real-time, allowing students to learn from their mistakes and make improvements.

Kessler (2020) provided research on the effectiveness of using Google Classroom for language learning in a university setting. The study found that students who used Google Classroom showed a significant improvement in their language skills, as well as a higher level of engagement in the learning process. The study also emphasized the importance of providing students with regular feedback and using a variety of interactive resources to enhance the learning experience.

According to Beaumont (2018), Google Classroom can support blended learning, which combines traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning. This approach can be particularly useful for foreign language learners, as it allows them to practice their skills in a variety of contexts, such as in the classroom or at home. Blended learning can also provide students with more flexibility, as they can access the course materials at their own pace and review them as many times as needed.

Furthermore, the platform's multimedia capabilities can provide students with a great learning experience. Teachers can share videos, audio recordings, and other multimedia resources, allowing students to practice their listening and speaking skills. They can also use Google Forms to create surveys and quizzes that can be used to assess students' comprehension of the material. This feature can be particularly useful for foreign language learners, as it provides them with immediate feedback on their performance, allowing them to identify areas where they need improvement.

Finally, Dieu & Tuyen (2022) found that EFL learners have positive perceptions of using Google Classroom in speaking classes. The students reported that the platform allowed them to practice their speaking skills in a safe and supportive environment, and they felt more motivated and engaged in their learning. This study suggests that Google Classroom can be a valuable tool for promoting student engagement and motivation in foreign language learning. However, students also complain about the application's interface, the absence of a chat form or discussion forum, and the difficulty in submitting the assignment. They acknowledge that Google Classroom is simple to use and has great features that help the learning process run smoothly, such as sending notifications about the submission time, receiving feedback from the teacher immediately, and integrating other Google tools for storing and sharing documents.

Based on the results gained from the questionnaire, it was found that all students had high levels of the application (Moonma, 2021). They considered Google Classroom as very easy to use, with this factor having the highest mean. They also believed that Google Classroom is highly useful in that it helped them be more productive, allowed them to access materials conveniently and submit assignments quickly, and enabled them to interact with the teacher and other friends. Overall, students thought Google Classroom was simple to use, accessible, and an effective tool, according to the qualitative data. They also expressed a strong desire to use Google Classroom. The positive sentiments of the students toward its use as an online learning platform prompted them to keep it going.

The purpose of this paper is to explore the benefits of using Google Classroom for teaching foreign languages and how it can enhance the learning experience for students.

Presentation of the main material

Google Classroom is a web stage created by Google in 2014. The platform was outlined to assist instructors to make and oversee classes, convey and review assignments, and communicate with understudies in a centralized and organized way. The advancement of Google Classroom was a portion of Google's broader procedure to enter the instruction advertise and give teachers a suite of advanced apparatuses to improve educating and learning. Zach Yeskel, a previous instructor and item supervisor at Google, conceived the starting thought for Google Classroom. Yeskel recognized the requirement for a basic and user-friendly stage that would permit instructors to communicate with understudies and oversee assignments more successfully. He displayed the thought to his colleagues at Google, and they started creating the stage in early 2014.

Google Classroom was formally started in May 2014, at first as an invite-only benefit for a select gather of instructors. The stage was afterward made accessible to all teachers with a Google account, and it rapidly picked up notoriety among instructors and understudies alike. Google Classroom was especially well-suited for removing learning and further instructing, and it got to be indeed more prevalent amid the COVID-19 widespread, as schools around the world transitioned to online learning. Since its dispatch, Google Classroom has experienced a few overhauls and advancements, counting the expansion of modern highlights such as course subjects, rubrics, and creativity reports. The stage has to be coordinated with other Google instruments such as Google Drive, Docs, and Sheets, to supply instructors and understudies with a consistent and streamlined learning experience.

Mostly, Google Classroom has had a critical effect on the instruction scene, giving instructors a capable and easy-to-use instrument for overseeing their classes and improving the learning encounter for understudies. The stage proceeds to advance and adjust to the changing needs of teachers, and it is anticipated to stay a key player within the instruction innovation advertise for a long time to come.

Teachers can communicate with their students using a variety of channels due to Google Classroom. They can post significant updates or information about their class using the “Announcements” tab. The “Stream” tab can also be used to start a conversation or pose a query. Additionally, lecturers can speak with specific students or groups of students using the private message feature.

There are several features available in Google Classroom that can improve language teaching and learning. These activities consist of:

- Google Drive: Lesson plans, PowerPoint slideshows, and worksheets can all be stored and shared by teachers using Google Drive. Students can now access course materials at any time and from any location thanks to this feature. Using cloud services such as Google Drive storage is the next step in providing educational material or other information to students. This approach, compared to the use of educational portals, is more convenient and understandable for a modern user of computer systems and mobile devices. The very principle of working with data in the “cloud” is the very modern information foundation used by modern companies and enterprises for general convenience and efficiency of work. Such an experience for students will have a positive impact on their future professional activities.

- Google Forms: Teachers can use Google Forms to make tests, surveys, and assessments that they can use to gauge their students' language proficiency. Teachers can use this feature to assess students' progress and give them feedback. Google testing is a convenient way to control which has several positive aspects. Google-test involves the sharing and simultaneous adjustment of assignments by several teachers, it provides a fairly convenient and fast format for compiling a test.

It is a simplified and accurate way of calculating the results of certain types of tasks, which may not be tied to the time of the classroom session, and allows the participation of a large number of students in the test, regardless of their location.

- Google Meet: Google Meet is a tool for video conferencing that can be used for online language exchanges, tutorials, and virtual classrooms. This feature can be used by teachers to carry out speaking and listening exercises, both of which are crucial for improving communication skills. With video conferencing, users can communicate remotely and discuss important work and personal issues across platforms, devices, and screens. Several users can participate in the conference at the same time from any place where there is a stable Internet connection.

Google Classroom can be used to practice foreign language skills as this platform has several tools. Learning a foreign language requires mastery of four essential language skills: speaking, reading, and writing. These methods for practicing these abilities can be used with Google Classroom:

Listening. Through Google Classroom, teachers can make audio or video recordings and distribute them to their students. The recordings can be listened to by students, who can then respond to questions based on what they have heard.

Speaking. Teachers can use Google Meet to run speaking exercises like debates, discussions, and role-plays. To get feedback from their teachers and peers, students can also record themselves speaking and share the recordings with them.

Reading. Through Google Classroom, teachers can distribute books, articles, and other reading materials to their students. The reading materials can be used by students to complete comprehension exercises.

Writing. Through Google Classroom, teachers can give students writing assignments to complete and turn in, such as essays, journal entries, and emails. Teachers can comment on student writing using this feature as well.

Google Classroom is primarily designed as a platform for teachers to manage their classes, assignments, and communications with students. While it may be possible to use Google Classroom to practice foreign language skills, it may not be the most effective way to do so. There are many other language learning tools and resources available online that are specifically designed to help learners practice and improve their language skills. These include language learning apps, online language courses, language exchange websites, and virtual conversation partners.

For teachers and students of foreign languages, Google Classroom is a digital platform with several features and advantages. It is possible to outline the main benefits of utilizing this platform for foreign language instruction and add a few more suggestions.

1) The platform provides easy organization and access. Students can easily access materials and resources using Google Classroom, which enables teachers to easily organize their materials and resources. Teachers of foreign languages who frequently require their students to practice and learn outside of the classroom will find this feature to be especially helpful.

2) Google Classroom offers a variety of interactive features that make learning a foreign language more interesting and interactive. To help students practice their language skills in a more interactive and immersive manner, teachers can design tests, games, and other activities.

3) Collaboration and communication are made possible by Google Classroom, which enables real-time communication and collaboration between teachers and students. It promotes a sense of community and engagement for students when they can ask questions, receive feedback, and work together on assignments.

4) It supports personalized learning. Google Classroom gives teachers the ability to customize each student's learning environment. Every student is given a challenge and is kept interested in the variety of assignments and resources that teachers can create for different proficiency levels.

5) Google Classroom enables teachers to promptly offer feedback on homework assignments and quizzes. Teachers of foreign languages who need to give their students immediate feedback to help them develop their language skills will find this feature to be especially helpful.

6) Integration with Other Tools: Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google Slides are all seamlessly integrated with Google Classroom. The sharing and collaboration of materials and assignments with students are made simple for teachers thanks to this integration.

7) It gives the ability to monitor student performance. Google Classroom enables teachers to keep tabs on their students' development and performance on tests and assignments. Foreign language instructors who need to evaluate their students' language proficiency and pinpoint areas for development will find this feature to be especially helpful.

Internet and technology access may be restricted in places where there is a war conflict in Ukraine. Even for students who may have been relocated or have restricted access to traditional classes, Google Classroom can be a beneficial tool for preserving some degree of educational continuity in some circumstances. It's important to keep in mind that Google Classroom might not be a perfect option, and there might still be issues with security, access to electricity, and other resources, among others. Thus, great thought and planning must go into the adoption of Google Classroom in such circumstances.

Although Google Classroom has some advantages for teaching foreign languages, teachers should be aware of some drawbacks as well:

- Limited language support. Although Google Classroom supports several different languages, not all of the languages may have access to all of the features.

- Limited multimedia capabilities. Compared to other platforms, Google Classroom has fewer multimedia capabilities, which may make it challenging to design engaging and interactive language lessons.

Difficulty with pronunciation practice. Google Classroom may not be the best option for teaching pronunciation and other oral skills because it is primarily a text- based platform.

- Insufficient personal interaction. Even though Google Classroom does include interactive tools like chat and video conferencing, it might not offer as much one-on-one interaction and feedback as a traditional classroom setting.

- Potential distractions. Because Google Classroom is an online platform, students may be more prone to online distractions like social media and other websites, which can impair their ability to learn.

- Limited collaboration tools. Although Google Classroom does permit some student collaboration, it might not offer as many collaborative tools as other platforms, which could restrict group projects and activities.

Overall, Google Classroom can be an effective tool for teaching foreign languages, but it may not be the best option for all teachers and students. For this reason, it should be used in conjunction with other teaching strategies and tools to provide students with a well-rounded language learning experience.

Mastering a foreign language can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Fortunately, with the help of technology, it has become easier to access language learning resources and connect with other learners and teachers worldwide. Many language classes are offered on the platform, and you can choose one that aligns with your language proficiency level. These classes offer assignments, quizzes, and other materials that can help you practice and improve your language skills. Participating in discussions with your classmates and teacher is another way to practice using the language. Google Classroom provides various communication tools like chats, comments, and posts that enable you to engage in discussions in a foreign language. This practice builds confidence and fluency in using the language, especially in speaking and writing. Completing assignments posted by your teacher is an excellent way to practice and improve your language skills. These assignments may include reading passages, writing essays, or taking quizzes. The feedback you receive on your work from your teacher can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and work on improving them. Using Google Translate is another helpful tool for language learners. You can use it to translate words, phrases, or sentences that you don't understand. However, it's crucial to use Google Translate as a supplement to your language learning and not as a replacement for it. In addition to the above, watching videos and listening to audio clips posted in the classroom can improve your listening and comprehension skills. Engaging with the content in a foreign language will also help you build vocabulary and improve your pronunciation.

In conclusion, by joining a language class, participating in discussions, completing assignments, using Google Translate, watching videos and listening to the audio, and seeking help, students can improve their foreign language competence. With practice and dedication, you'll soon find yourself communicating effortlessly in the language. Google Classroom is a powerful tool for educators to manage their online classroom, distribute assignments, provide feedback, and communicate with students.

Conclusion

foreign language google classroom

The platform offers a variety of tools that can help with communication, collaboration, and feedback, and provides students with an engaging and interactive learning experience. The article analyzes recent research that highlights the usefulness of Google Classroom for foreign language teaching, including the platform's multimedia capabilities, ability to support blended learning, and positive impact on student motivation and engagement. The article also provides a step-by-step guide on how to use Google Classroom for teaching foreign languages. Overall, Google Classroom is a powerful tool that can enhance the learning experience of foreign language students and provide them with more flexibility and opportunities to practice their language skills.

The paper highlights the benefits of using Google Classroom for language learning, including its ability to provide a centralized platform for communication, collaboration, and resource sharing. The analysis also underscores the importance of using best practices, such as creating a structured course outline, providing regular feedback, and using a variety of multimedia resources, to effectively use this tool in the language classroom. Overall, the use of Google Classroom can enhance the language learning experience and help students develop their language skills more efficiently and engagingly.

In conclusion, Google Classroom is a powerful tool that can help you manage your online classroom, distribute assignments, provide feedback, and communicate with your students. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can use Google Classroom to enhance your teaching and improve your students' learning experience. Google Classroom is a versatile platform that can be used to teach foreign languages effectively. Teachers can use the various features and functions to create engaging learning experiences that develop language skills and competences. By incorporating digital tools into language teaching, students can enhance their language proficiency, develop intercultural awareness, and improve their digital literacy and collaborative skills.

References