Learning has evolved in more ways than imaginable within the last ten years. Today’s high school students can now remember the days when standardized tests were taken via pencil and paper, assignments were written down in planners and projects were often times presented on posters. Learning has shifted to a more digital approach, including the use of Blackboard and various Google applications, with the most recent addition being Google Classroom.

“[Google Classroom] is essentially Google Docs with many more features,” social studies teacher John Downes said. “It is also more convenient for me because I can add materials to Google Classroom right from my phone.”

Teachers are taking advantage of this new technology and adapting the way they run their classes. The new features can show teachers if students complete their assignments, how often students visit the pages and even allow students to write comments and questions about the assignments posted. Downes has begun posting homework assignments as well as supplemental readings and videos on Google Classroom for his students.

“It creates a sense of community that keeps students connected to my classroom,” Downes said.

Students have varying opinions about the implementation of Google Classroom. Some aspects of the application are beneficial. For example, students are able to do their homework right from their phone and submit assignments then and there. However, the application has caused some communication issues between students and teachers, making some assignments more difficult to complete and submit. 

“I’m not a huge fan of Google Classroom, but I do think that teachers are making a good effort to catch up with technology,” junior Ava Sharifi said.

With the way technology is evolving so rapidly, students should expect more apps like Google Classroom to show up in the near future.