Google has different features to offer. This includes tools that teachers can use inside and outside of their classrooms. One tool I will be discussing is Google Hangouts. Many teachers are using Google Hangouts as a form of communication globally through video chat. I have personally never used Google Hangout, but after researching this tool and how to use it, I would like to use this tool in the future.
Google Hangout offers one-to-one, group communications and being streamed live on YouTube. It can also allow up to 10 people at a time to communicate with each other. Here are some ways teachers can use Google Hangouts in the classroom
1. Broadcast and Archive Live Lectures:
If a teacher is unable to be physically present in class on any given day, they can broadcast their lecture using Hangouts so students don’t miss out on the assignment. They may also ask any questions they have.
Hangout also offers lectures to be archived so it can be shared with anyone.
2. Create Live Shows For Broadcast:
Students can create scripts and switch camera angles to create a live show. This can help them reach as many viewers as possible. While doing so, they are connecting with other students and teachers around the world. This allows them to share their ideas and make connections.
3. Converse Digitally In Groups Or One-To-One:
Hangouts promotes conversation because it can allow up to 10 people to communicate with each other at the same time. You can also save any interactions and go back to it later.
4. Create Online Portfolios:
Teachers can create a channel and store videos, work, and presentations in a portfolio. Students can access assignments at any time that is convenient for them.
5. Use For Professional Development:
Teachers can use Hangouts to interact with other professionals around the world. They can help one another by sharing tips and ideas. This allows teachers to create a personal connection globally.
6. Using Google Hangout to Attend Class:
Here is a YouTube clip of a teacher having one of their student attend class using Google Hangout. Check it out!
7. Lessons Plans Can Be Created To Use Google Hangouts:
This lesson plan is called “Using Google Hangout To Conduct A Mystery Chat With An Unknown Class.” Students will have to guess the location of the class they are chatting with on Google Hangouts. Both teachers of the class will set up the session with one another before introducing the students. To view this lesson plan, click on the link below:
There is also another video tool that teachers can use also known as Skype, There are some differences between these two. Such as:
Number Of Participants
Google Hangout allows up to 10 people to chat with one another at the same time for free. Skype charges a fee for a certain amount of participants.
Social Media Integration
Hang out integrates with Google +, Google Drive and YouTube. Skype integrates with Facebook and Outlook.
Screen Sharing
When using hangouts you can prepare and create the video screen before inviting people into your video chat
When using Skype if you want to test out the video screen you have to invite people to the video chat first.
Check out this chart for more differences between the two.
My Thoughts
I am open to using Google Hangouts. I like that it allows up to 10 people in a chat and it’s free to do so. I also read that it has a better connection than Skype which is always a plus. I have mainly used Skype and enjoy it. After researching how Google Hangout works, it seems this would be the better choice to use in and outside of class.
Which video tool would you use in your classroom?
Click on the link below to read the article I read on Google Hangout
https://edtechreview.in/trends-insights/insights/815-how-to-use-hangouts-in-the-classroom
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