Leveraging the power of Google Apps to support active learning in a synchronous online environment

Abstract

A significant challenge of pandemic teaching was creating active small group learning experiences in a synchronous online learning environment. Efforts to address this challenge led to an instructional process, using multiple Google Apps, that was not only effective in an online setting, but has the potential to improve seated small group learning, as well. In this article, a complete implementation of this process will be shared describing how multiple Google Apps (i.e. Forms, Sheets, Slides, Jamboard) were utilized to gather information about the current level of students’ understanding, engage groups in a learning activity to advance this understanding, provide immediate feedback as students worked through the activity, and equip the instructor and groups with tools to interact without disrupting small group dynamics.