Photo credit: www.theverge.com

Google Introduces Innovative Features for ChromeOS in Education

Google has unveiled a series of new features for ChromeOS, focusing on enhancing classroom experiences and accessibility. A particularly notable addition is the capability to use head and facial movements to navigate and control computers, a function designed specifically for individuals with motor impairments. Initially revealed in early December, this feature is now being made available to a wider group of users with compatible Chromebooks, particularly those with 8GB of RAM or higher.

This development marks not the first attempt by Google to integrate facial recognition technology for accessibility. The company previously launched an open-source initiative called Project Gameface, aimed at helping gamers on Windows use their facial movements for gameplay, which has also been announced for Android devices. A demonstration video of this technology showcases the efforts of software engineer Amanda Lin Dietz, who played a pivotal role in its development.

In addition to accessibility improvements, Google is preparing to introduce a significant lineup of over 20 new Chromebooks within its standard and Chromebook Plus ranges slated for release in 2025. This figure is somewhat ambitious, as it includes devices like the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus, which was launched in October, alongside the recently announced 14-inch Lenovo Chromebook Plus 2-in-1 among other new models.

Complementing the hardware advancements, Google is also debuting a new collection of educational tools under the title Class Tools. These features empower teachers to control student screens in real time. Once a pairing code is provided, educators can push content directly to student devices, activate live captions or translations, remotely view student screens, and share student work with the entire class.

An educator’s view of Google’s Class Tools settings.

Moreover, Google Classroom is set to benefit from a new integration with Figma’s FigJam, creating online whiteboard spaces for students to collaborate on brainstorming and group activities. This combination of tools promises to enhance engagement, posing an interesting dynamic where educators can monitor student activity and participation during group projects.

Source
www.theverge.com