30 Days of Google Classroom: A Guide for Future Educators

Day 20: Using Google Classroom’s Mobile App for Teaching on the Go – Features and Tips

Introduction

Teaching doesn’t always happen from behind a desk. Whether you’re managing assignments during your commute, responding to student questions between meetings, or checking submissions on the fly, the Google Classroom mobile app allows educators to stay connected anytime, anywhere.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key features of the Google Classroom mobile app, how to use it effectively, and essential tips for managing your class on the go.

Key Features of the Google Classroom Mobile App

The Google Classroom mobile app (available for iOS and Android) offers nearly all the functionality of the desktop version, with added convenience.

✔ Create and manage assignments – Post new assignments, edit details, and adjust due dates.
✔ Review and grade student work – Provide feedback and assign grades directly from your mobile device.
✔ Send announcements and updates – Post messages on the Stream tab to keep students informed.
✔ Use voice typing for feedback – Save time by using your phone’s voice-to-text feature for comments.
✔ Attach photos and PDFs – Snap a picture of a worksheet or textbook page and upload it instantly.
✔ Offline access – View and edit drafts even without an internet connection.
✔ Google Meet integration – Start or join a video session directly from the app.

💡 Tip: Make sure to enable push notifications so you never miss important student messages or submission alerts.

How to Use the Google Classroom App Efficiently

1. Managing Assignments and Grading

Open the app and go to the Classwork tab.
Tap an assignment to view student submissions.
Use the annotation tool to write directly on PDFs submitted by students.
Leave private comments or use the comment bank for quick feedback.
Assign grades and return work with a few taps.

💡 Tip: Grading on mobile is perfect for quick checks or responding to student questions while away from your desk.

2. Communicating with Students

Post class announcements from the Stream tab.
Reply to student comments and questions instantly.
Use Google Meet within the app for quick virtual check-ins.
Send private messages to students who need additional support.

💡 Tip: Set office hours using Google Meet to create an open Q&A time for students.

3. Organizing Class Materials on the Go

Upload new Google Docs, Slides, or Sheets directly from your phone.
Take photos of handwritten notes or diagrams and attach them as resources.
Access Google Drive files and share materials with students instantly.

💡 Tip: Use the Scan feature in Google Drive to digitize and upload documents easily.

4. Managing Notifications and Alerts

Go to Settings and enable push notifications for:
- Student submissions
- Comments and messages
- Grading reminders
Customize alerts for specific classes to avoid unnecessary notifications.

💡 Tip: Use Do Not Disturb mode during off-hours to maintain a work-life balance.

Best Practices for Teaching on the Go

✔ Plan ahead – Schedule assignments in advance so you can focus on feedback while mobile.
✔ Utilize voice-to-text – Dictate feedback instead of typing for faster responses.
✔ Keep it organized – Use Topics to structure assignments and materials.
✔ Check notifications regularly – Stay updated without constantly checking the app.
✔ Use offline mode – Review drafts and notes even without internet access.

What’s Next?

Now that you know how to teach on the go using the Google Classroom mobile app, in Day 21, we’ll explore organizing deadlines and assignments with Google Calendar.

How do you use the Google Classroom mobile app in your teaching routine? Share your experience in the comments!