Day 2: Setting Up Your First Google Classroom
Introduction
Now that you understand why Google Classroom is an essential tool for future educators, it’s time to set up your first class. Whether you plan to use it for student teaching, tutoring, or practice, this step-by-step guide will help you get started smoothly.
Step 1: Access Google Classroom
Before setting up a class, make sure you have a Google account. If you don’t, create one at Google Sign Up. Then:
Go to Google Classroom.
Click on the + (plus sign) in the upper right corner.
Select Create class (if you are prompted about using a G Suite account, check the box and continue).
Step 2: Customize Your Class Details
Once you’ve selected Create class, fill in the following details:
Class name – Keep it simple and clear (e.g., "Introduction to Teaching Methods").
Section – Use this if you teach multiple groups of students.
Subject – Helps with organization (e.g., "Education" or "Pedagogy").
Room – Optional, useful for in-person classes.
Click Create, and your classroom is ready!
Step 3: Personalize Your Classroom
Google Classroom allows you to add a unique touch to your class. Here’s how:
Change the Class Theme: Click "Select theme" or "Upload photo" to personalize the banner.
Edit Class Details: Click on the settings gear in the upper right to adjust class information, grading settings, and more.
Step 4: Invite Students
There are two ways to add students:
Share the Class Code – Found in the Stream tab, this allows students to join on their own.
Manually Invite Students – Go to the "People" tab, click Invite students, and enter their emails.
Step 5: Explore the Classroom Interface
Familiarize yourself with the four main tabs:
Stream – A communication hub for announcements and discussions.
Classwork – Where assignments, quizzes, and materials are organized.
People – Lists students and co-teachers.
Grades – Tracks and manages student performance.
What’s Next?
Congratulations! You’ve set up your first Google Classroom. In Day 3, we’ll dive deeper into the Google Classroom interface so you can navigate it like a pro.
How do you plan to use your first Google Classroom? Let us know in the comments!