Use of Google Platforms in Teaching-Learning and Evaluation: A Study with Special Reference to Teaching of English to the UG and PG Classes

Abstract

The 21^st century is essentially an era of information, communication and technology. The use of technology in teaching-learning and evaluation has enhanced the students’ perception and understanding at different levels. Technology has become part and parcel of modern life style. We cannot keep teaching of English in India alienated from the use of technology.    The students of UG and PG are using different Google platforms. They are connected to the entire world through internet, Google and social media. Therefore, the teachers have to become tech-savvy in order to make teaching- learning and evaluation more effective, live and learner-friendly. In the present research, the primary focus is given on different Google platforms. Google platforms are user-friendly and easy to use. Google platforms like email, YouTube, Google Classroom, Google Meet, Google Drive, Google Scholar, Google Search, Translator, Calendar, Sheet, Docs, Slides, Blogger, Jam board, Google Earth, Podcasts, Art and Culture, etc. are very popular. These Google platforms are very innovative and smart. If the teachers use these platforms, the students can learn and study at their own pace. It is the best way to keep students engaged in the teaching-learning and evaluation process. All these Google platforms are available on Android Mobile and Smartphones. In the present research, an attempt is made to discuss the usefulness of Email, Google Classroom, Google Meet, YouTube, Google Docs, Google Scholar, Google Drive, and Google Translator in making the teaching-learning and evaluation student-centric, fast, continuous, smart, technology-enabled and eco-friendly also. Google platforms can be used for multiple purposes, like dissemination of information and knowledge, assigning activities, evaluating progress, conducting surveys, expanding traditional classroom teaching boundaries, etc. The present researcher has been using these Google platforms for the last ten years. The observations and findings in the present research are based on the researcher’s use of different Google platforms.