Google Classroom: A Viable and Affordable Option for Online Education in Nigeria

Mustapha Bukar Gana

doi:10.5772/intechopen.1004782

Abstract

Google Classroom is a free digital learning platform that can help millions of Nigerian students and teachers access quality online education. This paper discusses the viability and affordability of Google Classroom as an online education platform in Nigeria. It analyzes the key features and functionality of Google Classroom, such as accessibility, student engagement, collaboration, and professional development, and explores how they can address the challenges faced by the Nigerian education system. The paper also examines the impact of Google Classroom through five case studies and success stories, involving some Nigerian universities and colleges, and provides insights into its practical implementation and effectiveness. The paper also focuses on Google Classroom’s viability and affordability as a solution for online education in Nigeria as it offers various benefits and advantages that improve online education outcomes and experiences. The paper contributes to the ongoing discussion on leveraging technology for educational empowerment and informs policymakers, educators, and stakeholders about the potential of Google Classroom in Nigeria.

Keywords

Nigeria
Google classroom
online education
online teaching
online learning

Author Information

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Mustapha Bukar Gana*
- Umar Ibn Ibrahim El-Kanemi College of Education Science and Technology, Nigeria

*Address all correspondence to: mustaphabukargana@gmail.com

1. Introduction

In Africa, online learning has gained momentum as a means to overcome various challenges faced by traditional education systems such as limited resources, insufficient infrastructure, and geographical barriers. Online learning platforms and tools have the potential to reach remote areas and provide quality education to students who would otherwise have limited access to educational opportunities. Nigeria, as one of the most populous countries in Africa, has witnessed a growing interest in online learning. The country faces challenges in education, including high numbers of out-of-school children, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified teachers. Online learning offers a promising solution to this problem through scalable and affordable educational options. In recent years, various initiatives and platforms have emerged in Nigeria to promote online learning. These include massive open online courses (MOOCs), e-learning platforms, and virtual classrooms. These platforms offer a wide range of subjects and courses so that students can learn at their own pace and convenience. Online learning is a form of education that uses the internet and digital technologies to provide and access learning materials and activities [1]. This trend has also been seen in Africa and Nigeria, where online learning platforms and tools have emerged to address various challenges faced by traditional education systems. Online learning has many benefits for students and teachers in Africa and Nigeria. However, there are many challenges in online learning such as limited internet connection, high cost of internet access and equipment, low quality and certification of online courses. In addition, online learning requires digital language skills of students and teachers, which may not be available or sufficient in some contexts [2]. There are also concerns about the quality and validity of online courses and the need for a digital medium between students and teachers [3].

To overcome these challenges and promote the effective introduction of online learning, governments, educational institutions, and stakeholders in Africa, including Nigeria, need to invest in infrastructure development, online networks, and digital skills training. In particular, Google Classroom is an effective and affordable online learning solution in Nigeria because it has many features and benefits that meet the needs and challenges of online learners and educators in Nigeria. Therefore, Nigeria needs an effective and affordable online learning solution to overcome these challenges and make online learning more effective. Google Classroom is a free digital learning platform that is part of Google Workspace for Education, a suite of cloud-based tools that includes applications for video conferencing, word processing, and collaboration. Google Classroom is a virtual learning environment that allows teachers to create and manage online lessons, assignments, tests, grades, and feedback. Google Classroom has many features and advantages that make it useful and useful for online learning in Nigeria [4, 5]. It is interactive and engaging as it supports collaborative learning and communication among learners and educators and provides multimedia and gamified content and activities.

The objective of this chapter is to explore the viability and affordability of Google Classroom as a solution for online learning in Nigeria. To achieve this objective, the chapter will present case studies of Google Classroom implementation in Nigeria. These case studies are presented to showcase Google Classroom implementation in Nigeria, featuring institutions, such as the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Covenant University, Akure, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Bridge International Academies, [6, 7], Umar Ibn Ibrahim El-Kanemi College of Education, Science, and Technology (UIIECEST.) Bama. These examples demonstrate how Google Classroom has been utilized to enhance teaching and learning experiences in different educational contexts.

2. Google classroom

Google Classroom is a cloud-based platform that allows teachers and students to create, distribute, and grade assignments in a paperless way. Google Classroom is accessible from any device with a web browser, and it also has dedicated apps for Android and iOS devices. Google Classroom offers various features and benefits for educators and students, such as setting classroom themes, reusing assignments, adding content to assignments, sharing videos, links, or images, viewing assignments, announcements, and resources on a class page, drafting and scheduling posts, setting up Google Calendar, exporting grades, setting permissions, hosting virtual classes, originality reports, and image capturing. Google Classroom is part of Google Workspace for Education, which provides a range of collaboration tools for schools and institutions. Google Classroom can also be added to an institution’s existing LMS software through the assignment feature [4, 5, 8]. Available in 42 languages, this free education tool lets teachers use Google’s productivity tools to streamline tasks, improve collaboration, and foster seamless communication (Figure 1).

Figure 1.
Google classroom. Source: Google.

Google Classroom is a popular learning management system (LMS) that allows teachers and students to create, manage, and share courses online. It is part of the Google Workspace for Education suite, which also includes tools such as Gmail, Drive, Docs, Slides, and Meet. Google Classroom is free for teachers and students, but you must first have a Google account and sign in to the Google Workspace for Education platform [9, 10]. It integrates seamlessly with other Google tools and apps, making it easy to create and access content, collaborate, and communicate. Provides a central location to organize and manage your courses, assignments, grades, and feedback. This allows teachers to monitor student progress and provide personalized support and feedback, promote student engagement and motivation by allowing students to interact with peers and teachers, access multimedia resources, and learn at their own pace. Some third-party apps and tools used by teachers and students may be incompatible or require additional steps to integrate. Four.

2.1 Main features of Google classroom

Google Classroom is an online learning management system developed by Google. It aims to enable teachers and students to effectively collaborate, communicate, and manage different aspects of the learning process [5]. Some of the main features of Google Classroom include:

Assignment management: Teachers can create and distribute assignments, collect student input, provide feedback, and grade them electronically.
Announcements and communications: Teachers can make announcements, post updates, and participate in discussions with students through the platform.
Content distribution: Teachers can share educational materials such as documents, presentations, and videos with students.
Calendar integration: Classroom is integrated with Google Calendar, so teachers can plan and organize class events, due dates, and reminders.
Collaboration tools: Students can work on assignments and projects by sharing documents, leaving comments, and collaborating in real time. It is collaborative and interactive because it allows teachers and students to communicate and collaborate in real time or asynchronously.

3. Google classroom alternatives

Some of the Google Classroom alternatives [] include:

Moodle: Moodle is an open-source LMS that allows teachers and students to create and access courses online or offline. It also provides analytics and reporting capabilities to measure and improve learning.
Canvas LMS: This is a cloud-based LMS that offers a comprehensive and customizable platform for online learning. It supports different types of content, ratings, and communication and integrates with many external tools and applications. Canvas LMS is free for individual teachers and students, but institutions must pay for a subscription.
Edmodo: Edmodo is a social learning platform that connects teachers and students in a virtual classroom. It allows teachers to create and share assignments, quizzes, surveys, and resources, as well as communicate with students and parents. It also allows students to collaborate with their classmates, join online communities, and earn badges. Edmodo is free for teachers and students but offers great features.
Microsoft Teams: A cloud-based collaboration and communications platform that integrates with other Microsoft tools such as Office 365, OneDrive, and Skype.
Classcraft: A gamified learning platform that turns online courses into immersive and fun experiences. It allows teachers to create and manage assignments, assignments, tests, and grades.
Excalidraw: A simple minimalistic drawing tool that allows teachers and students to create and share sketches, diagrams, and notes.

These are just a few examples of Google Classroom alternatives. You can use these sites to find more options and compare their features, pros and cons, and how to use them for your teaching and learning program.

4. Advantages of using Google classroom for online teaching and learning

The advantages of using Google Classroom for online learning [9] include:

Google Classroom is a free online platform that integrates Google productivity tools, such as Google Drive, Docs, Slides, and Meet, to create and manage courses, assignments, and assessments. Google Classroom offers many advantages for online teaching and learning such as accessibility, visibility, paperless, communication, collaboration, creativity, engagement, differentiation, and personalization.
Google Classroom is easy to use and encourages collaboration between students and teachers. Teachers can create classes and list learning programs as assignments with a few clicks.
Google Classroom integrates with many student communication systems and other third-party applications, including teaching tools, literacy solutions, and coding software.
Google Classroom is also available as a mobile app for iPhone and Android devices. 8. How to create a class in Google Classroom.

5. Creating a classroom in Google classroom

To create a classroom [11] in Google Classroom, you must sign in to classroom.google.com with your Google account and click the plus sign (+) at the top of the classroom page. Finally, click Create.

5.1 Adding an assignment to Google classroom

To add an assignment [11, 12] to Google Classroom, follow these steps (Figure 2):

Open Google Classroom and select the class in which you want to post the assignment. Hover over the plus [+] sign at the bottom and click Create Task.
To add a Google Drive file, link, or document to your task, click Add or Create in My Tasks.
To assign an assignment to all or some students, click All Students and select the students you want to include.
Click Submit to post your assignment instantly.

5.2 Marking assignments in Google classroom

There are several ways to mark assignments in Google Classroom [7]. If needed, you can also import points from Google Forms quizzes.

Enter your academic qualifications on the qualifications page. On this page, you can view and update grades for all assignments in your class.

5.3 Creating a quiz in Google classroom

Create a quiz in Google Classroom to create a quiz [13] in Google Classroom, follow these steps:

Go to classroom.google.com and sign in with your Google account.
Click the class where you want to create the quiz.
Click the Classwork tab, click Create, and then select Quiz assignment.
Give your quiz a title and provide additional instructions, if necessary.
Click the Blank Quiz to customize your quiz in Google Forms. You can add questions, answers, feedback, and settings as you wish.
When you are done, click the Send button and then select add collaborators to share the quiz with your co-teachers, if any.
Go back to the quiz assignment in Google Classroom and click Assign to post it to your students. You can also schedule it to post later, add a due date and time, and add attachments.

5.4 Create a discussion using Google classroom

To create a discussion [14] in Google Classroom, you can use the Question feature in the classwork tab. You can choose between a short answer and a multiple-choice question and allow students to reply to each other. You can also add a topic to your question to organize it under a specific category.

A topic is a way to group assignments, quiz assignments, questions, and class materials under a common theme or unit. You can create topics in the classwork tab and assign them to your posts. A topic can have multiple posts under it, but a post can only have one topic. You can also reorder topics and posts to follow your curriculum.

5.5 Tracking student progress in Google classroom

To track student progress in Google Classroom, you can use the classroom report. You can view and mark assignments, track student progress, and share grades with students and tutors [15].

To track your student’s progress, follow these steps:

From the list of students in your class, find and select the student whose progress you want to track. Stream: View student activity in the class stream, including posts, announcements, and comments. You can check whether students have turned in assignments, view grades, and provide feedback.
Grades: Go to the “Grades” tab to see the overall class grade and individual assignment grades. These reports may include information such as grades, attendance, and assignment completion. The features and options available may vary depending on school settings and the permissions granted to teachers in Google Classroom. You can also use third-party tools that integrate with Google Classroom, such as GradeBook for Google Sheets and Flubaroo [16, 17].
Teachers can create classes and add students using a special code and import them from their school district.
Teachers can create and assign learning activities using a variety of media, including videos, PDFs, surveys, and links.
Teachers can use the creative notebook and report to monitor student progress and provide feedback and grades.
Teachers can integrate educational technology tools and classroom plugins and synchronize classroom access with their student information system (SIS).

6. Using Google classroom and other LMS platforms

Google Classroom and other LMS platforms [18, 19] can be used depending on compatibility and integration options. Some LMS platforms, such as Moodle and Canvas, allow you to import and export content from Google Classroom or synchronize lists and grades. You should review the documentation and support of the LMS platform you plan to use with Google Classroom to determine its potential and limitations. For example, you can use Google Classroom as a stand-alone LMS or complement it with other Google tools and third-party applications.

6.1 The difference between Google classroom and other LMS platforms

There are differences between Google Classroom and other LMS platforms. Google Classroom is a free service that allows teachers and students to create, share, and grade assignments online. Integration with other Google applications such as Google Drive, Docs, Spreadsheets, Forms, and Slides facilitates collaboration and communication between users. Although Google Classroom was designed to be simple and easy to use, it does not have all the features of other LMS [20].

6.2 The advantages of Google classroom compared to other LMS

Some of the advantages of Google Classroom compared to other LMS [20] are:

It is free and accessible to anyone with a Google account.
It has a streamlined interface that reduces the need for multiple clicks and tabs.
It allows teachers to create and reuse assignments from a resource page.
It supports various file types and formats, including links and Google Drive attachments.
It enables real-time feedback and grading with rubrics and originality reports.
It facilitates group work and peer review with the share button and the comment feature.

6.3 The disadvantages of Google classroom compared to other LMS

Some of the disadvantages of Google Classroom compared to other LMSs [16, 21] are:

It does not have a built-in quiz or assessment tool, although it can be integrated with Google Forms or other external tools.
It does not have a comprehensive gradebook or reporting system, although it can export grades to Google Sheets or CSV files.
It does not have a course or enrollment management system, although it can use class codes or email invitations to add students.
It does not have a discussion forum or chat room, although it can use Google Meet or Hangouts for video conferencing.
It does not have a gamification or badge system, although it can use third-party apps or extensions to enhance engagement.

7. Creating an online course in Google classroom

To create an online course in Google Classroom [19], follow the following steps:

Create a Google account if you do not have one already. You can use your existing email address or create a new one.
Sign in to Google Classroom using your Google account. Go to classroom.google.com and click Sign In.
Begin the class creation process. At the top of the classes page, click Add Create class.
Fill in the required information. Enter the class name, section, subject, and room. You can also change the class theme by clicking Select Theme.
Create the class. Click Create and wait for your class to be ready.
Add your students. You can invite your students by email or by using the class code that classroom generates for you.
Upload training content. You can create assignments, quizzes, questions, and materials for your course using Google Workspace tools or other apps that integrate with classroom.
Begin your class. You can post announcements, communicate with your students, grade their work, and give feedback using Classroom features.
You can also change the topic of your class by clicking Choose a topic.

8. Integrating other apps with Google classroom

To integrate other apps [16] (third party) with Google Classroom, you can use the Google Classroom API. This allows you to create and manage classes, rosters, and assignments programmatically. You can also use third-party apps that integrate with Google Classroom, such as Kahoot!, Quizlet, and Edpuzzle.

9. Tips for using Google classroom more effectively

Google Classroom is a popular platform for online learning and teaching. If you want to use Google Classroom for your online teaching and learning, visit Google Classroom, click Create and wait until your classroom is ready. You can invite students by email or by using the class code you created in Google Classroom. You can use Google Workspace tools and other classroom-related applications to create assignments, quizzes, and resources for your courses. You can use learning tools to send announcements, communicate with students, submit their work, and provide feedback. Integrate other applications into Google Classroom. This will enable you to build and manage courses, checklists, and assignments in an organized manner You can also use third-party applications that integrate with Google Classroom, such as Kahoot! Google.

Some of the tips for using Google Classroom [16, 17] more effectively:

Use your real name and profile picture to help your instructor and classmates identify you.
Customize your folders in Google Drive to color code and organize your classes.
Use Google apps, such as Docs and Sheets, to complete assignments and collaborate with others.
Plan and apply topics to keep things organized: This helps you keep track of what you have covered and what you still need to cover.
Post all assignments: This ensures that students know what they need to do and when it is due.
Assign due dates for everything: This helps students stay on track and ensures that they do not miss any deadlines.
Set checkpoints with students to turn in work: This helps you keep track of student progress and ensures that students are staying on track.
Return work: This helps students understand what they did well and what they need to improve on.
Invite guardians: This helps parents stay informed about their child’s progress.
Turn on notifications to stay updated on announcements, feedback, and due dates.
Use the to-do page to view and manage your work across all your classes.
Use the comment feature to ask questions, share ideas, and give feedback to your instructor and classmates.
Use the originality reports feature to check your work for plagiarism and citation errors.
Use the rubrics feature to view the grading criteria and expectations for your assignments.
Use the explore feature to find relevant information and images for your assignments.
Use the offline mode to access and work on your assignments without an internet connection.
Assessment process: This helps students understand what they are doing well and what they need to improve on. Use the assignments page to view and manage assignments in your class. Use comments to ask questions, share ideas, and respond to teachers and classmates. Use the heading format to assess the standards and expectations of your work. Use the browse function to find information and images for your project.

10. The potentialities of Google classroom for online teaching and learning in Nigerian institutions

Google Classroom offers several potentialities for online teaching and learning in Nigerian institutions [22]. These are:

Easy course management: Google Classroom provides a user-friendly interface for managing courses, creating assignments, and organizing content. Educators can create virtual classrooms, add students, and distribute materials efficiently, simplifying administrative tasks.
Assignment distribution and submission: Teachers can create and distribute assignments electronically through Google Classroom. Students can submit their work online, eliminating the need for physical copies. This streamlines the assignment process, promotes organization, and enables timely feedback from teachers.
Collaboration and communication: Google Classroom facilitates collaboration and communication between teachers and students. It offers features such as class announcements, online discussions, and private messaging, fostering interactive learning environments and enabling seamless teacher-student and peer-to-peer interactions.
Access to resources and materials: Educators can share a variety of educational resources, including documents, presentations, videos, and websites, directly within Google Classroom. This ensures that students have easy access to course materials and can refer to them at any time.
Grading and feedback: Google Classroom provides tools for grading assignments and providing feedback to students. Teachers can annotate documents, provide comments, and assign grades all within the platform. This streamlines the grading process, promotes consistency, and allows for personalized feedback.
Integration with Google tools: Google Classroom seamlessly integrates with other Google tools, such as Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google Meet. This integration allows for collaborative document editing, real-time communication through video conferencing, and easy access to cloud storage for files and resources.
Mobile accessibility: Google Classroom offers mobile apps for Android and iOS devices, enabling students and teachers to access course materials and participate in activities using their smartphones or tablets. This enhances accessibility and flexibility in online learning.
Data and analytics: Google Classroom provides data and analytics on student engagement, assignment completion, and course performance. These insights can help educators track student progress, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. Overall, Google Classroom offers a comprehensive suite of tools and features that can support effective online teaching and learning activities in Nigerian institutions. Its user-friendly interface, collaboration capabilities, and seamless integration with other Google tools make it a popular choice for educators looking to enhance their online instructional practices.

11. Nigerian institutions using Google classroom for online teaching and learning

Google Classroom is certainly a popular platform for online teaching and learning, offering a variety of tools and features to facilitate educational management and collaboration between students and teachers in addition to offering a variety of tools and features to facilitate educational management and collaboration between students and teachers. Google Classroom allows institutions to create virtual classrooms, share course materials, assign and receive assignments, conduct discussions, and provide feedback to students. It also streamlines the learning process, increases student engagement, and provides a central platform for communication and resource sharing. All in all, Google Classroom has many tools and resources to help Nigerian institutions with online teaching. Its easy-to-use interface, powerful collaboration, and seamless integration with other Google tools make it a popular choice for educators looking to improve their online teaching practices.

Nigerian institutions [7] using Google Classroom for online teaching and learning include:

University of Lagos: This is one of the leading universities in Nigeria offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines. He uses Google Classroom to support online teaching, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
University of Ibadan, Oyo State: This is the oldest and most prestigious university in Nigeria, offering a variety of academic and professional programs in various disciplines.
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, Kaduna State: ABU is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Nigeria, offering a wide range of academic and professional programs in a variety of disciplines. It uses Google Classroom to enhance online teaching, especially distance learning and online learning. It uses Google Classroom to enhance online teaching, especially distance learning and online learning.
Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State: This is one of Nigeria’s leading universities, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a variety of disciplines. It uses Google Classroom to support online teaching and learning.
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State: UNN is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Nigeria, offering a wide range of academic and professional programs at undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various fields.
Umar Ibn Ibrahim El-Kanemi College of Education, Science, and Technology in Bama (UIIECEST), Borno State.

These institutions use Google Classroom to improve online teaching and learning, especially distance learning and e-learning. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and other universities and institutions in Nigeria may also be using Google Classroom. Integrating Google Classroom in higher education institutions in Nigeria typically requires a multifaceted approach that takes into account different needs. Google Classroom is a free teaching and learning service that integrates with other Google tools such as Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google Meet. It allows teachers to create and manage online courses, assignments, tests, and grades.

12. Using Google classroom for distance learning

Google Classroom is a free online platform that helps teachers and students create and manage online courses, assignments, tests, and grades. Google Classroom is a free online platform that helps teachers and students create and manage online courses, assignments, tests, and grades. To use Google Classroom for distance learning, you need a Google account and [17] an internet-enabled device. You can use Google Classroom in a web browser or download the app for Android, iOS, or Chrome operating systems. You can use Google Classroom in a web browser or download the app for Android, iOS, or Chrome operating systems.

13. Tips for using Google classroom for distance learning

Some of the tips for using Google Classroom correctly for distance learning [11, 17] include:

Complete assignments and collaborate with classmates using Google apps, such as Google Docs and Sheets.
Use Google Forms to create a quiz in Google Classroom and enter your own credentials.
Use Google Meet to schedule online classes and connect to Google Classroom.
Learn how to access Google Classroom if you have limited bandwidth and no internet at home.

14. Implementing Google classroom for e-learning in Nigerian institutions

To set up Google Classroom for e-learning in a Nigerian institution, according to [8, 9, 10, 23], you will need the following:

You can create a free account or use one at google.com (https://classroom.google.com/).
A browser that supports Google Classroom, such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. This will help you create courses, add students, and access other resources such as Google Drive, Docs, Slides, and Meet.
You can sign up for a free account at edu.google.com (https://edu.google.com/intl/ALL_us/workspace-for-education/classroom/) or ask your administrator if once you have these requirements, you can follow these steps [8, 9, 10, 23] to set up Google Classroom.
Click the plus sign (+) at the top-right corner and select Create class.
To add students to your class, click the People tab and then click the plus sign (+) next to Students. To create an assignment for your class, click the Classwork tab and then click the plus sign (+) next to create.
To grade and return assignments to your students, click the Classwork tab and then click on the assignment you want to review.

15. Getting the best out of Google classroom

To get the best out of Google Classroom [24], instructors using Google Classroom should:

Gain expertise in Google Classroom: To gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in using Google Classroom, make use of the available resources such as Google’s official documentation, tutorials, and training materials by exploring the various features and strategies for effective implementation.
Earn Google for education certifications: Google offers several certifications related to education technology through Google for education program. These certifications can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your proficiency in using Google Classroom. Consider pursuing certifications such as Google Certified Educator Level 1, Google Certified Educator Level 2, or Google Certified Trainer.
Participate in professional development Programs: Engage in professional development programs and workshops related to Google Classroom and educational technology. Attend conferences, webinars, and training sessions specifically focused on using Google Classroom in educational settings. This will enable you to gain experience as a trainer who would be delivering training or professional development sessions to educators. This can be done through workshops, webinars, or by offering your services as a Google Classroom trainer to schools or educational organizations.
Apply to become a Google Certified Trainer: Once you have acquired the necessary expertise and experience, you can apply to become a Google Certified Trainer. Google periodically opens applications for individuals who wish to join their certified trainer community. Follow the application process outlined by Google, which may include submitting your qualifications, experience, and a demonstration of your training skills.
Maintain active engagement: Once you become a Google Certified Trainer, actively engage in the Google for Education community. Participate in forums, share resources, and contribute to the knowledge sharing among educators and trainers. It is important to note that the specific requirements and processes for becoming a Google Classroom Education Level Trainer may vary. It is recommended to visit the Google for Education website and review their guidelines and certification programs for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

16. Challenges Nigerian institutions face when implementing Google classroom

Nigerian institutions would encounter certain challenges asserts [22] in implementing Google Classroom. Some of the common ones would include:

Limited internet connectivity: In many parts of Nigeria, especially rural areas, access to stable and high-speed internet connectivity can be a significant challenge. This poses difficulties for students and teachers in accessing Google Classroom and participating in online activities. Slow internet speeds and frequent disruptions can hinder the smooth functioning.
Infrastructure and technology constraints: Nigerian schools often face infrastructure limitations, including a lack of computers, laptops, or other devices required to access Google Classroom. Insufficient resources and outdated technology can impede the adoption and effective use of online platforms, such as Google Classroom. This is particularly true in schools with limited financial resources.
Digital literacy and training: Many teachers and students in Nigeria may not be familiar with online learning platforms or lack the necessary digital literacy skills to navigate Google Classroom effectively. Training and support may be required for using this platform to ensure that educators and learners can maximize their potential. Limited access to professional development opportunities can further hinder the adoption of Google Classroom.
Electricity and power supply: Frequent power outages or unreliable electricity supply can disrupt online learning activities and access of Google Classroom and impact the learning experience.

17. Case study of successful implementation of Google classroom in Nigerian universities and institutions

17.1 Dr. Mustapha Bukar Gana’s experience of using Google classroom at Umar Ibn Ibrahim El-Kanemi College of Education, science, and technology, Bama

Dr. Mustapha Bukar Gana, an experienced educator and advocate for technology integration in education, recognized the potential of Google Classroom to enhance teaching and learning in Nigerian universities.

As a lecturer in the postgraduate diploma in education, guidance and counseling, Dr. Gana took the initiative to introduce Google Classroom as a digital learning platform.
Dr. Gana facilitated the training of instructors and students on how to effectively use Google Classroom, ensuring that they were equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the platform.
He worked closely with university administrators to address any infrastructure challenges and ensure a smooth implementation process.

In addition to Umar Ibn Ibrahim El-kanemi College of Education, Science, and Technology, Bama, several other Nigerian universities have also adopted Google Classroom for their educational programs [7]. A few examples are:

17.2 University of Lagos (UNILAG)

UNILAG has embraced Google Classroom to facilitate online teaching and learning.
Faculty members utilize the platform to share course materials, assign and collect assignments, and engage students in discussions.
The university has provided training and support to ensure effective utilization of Google Classroom.

17.3 University of Nsukka (UNN)

The university recognized the need to leverage technology to improve teaching and learning outcomes and embraced Google Classroom as a solution.
Faculty members at the University of Nsukka underwent comprehensive training on the features and functionalities of Google Classroom, enabling them to create engaging and interactive virtual classrooms.
Students were provided with access to the platform and received guidance on how to navigate the system, submit assignments, and participate in online discussions.
The university established a support system to address technical issues and provide ongoing assistance to users.

17.4 Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

ABU, located in Zaria, has integrated Google Classroom into its academic activities.
The platform is used for virtual classrooms, assignment management, and collaboration among students and instructors.
ABU encourages faculty members to explore the various features of Google Classroom to enhance teaching effectiveness.

17.5 Obafemi Awolowo university (OAU)

OAU has implemented Google Classroom as a digital learning platform.
Faculty members use the platform to deliver course materials, conduct assessments, and interact with students.
OAU promotes the use of Google Classroom as part of its commitment to providing quality education through technology.

17.6 University of Ibadan (UI)

UI has adopted Google Classroom to support blended learning approaches.
Faculty members incorporate the platform into their teaching methods, facilitating communication, and resource sharing.
Students at UI benefit from the convenience and accessibility of Google Classroom for their coursework.

17.7 Covenant University

Covenant University, a private institution located in Ota, employs Google Classroom as part of its e-learning initiatives.
The platform serves as a hub for course materials, discussions, and assignments.
Covenant University emphasizes the use of technology to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for the digital era.

These examples illustrate the growing trend of Nigerian universities and other institutions embracing Google Classroom as a tool for digital education.

18. Summary

“Google Classroom: A Viable Effective and Affordable Option for Online Education in Nigeria” provides an in-depth analysis of the benefits and implementation of Google Classroom, a powerful virtual learning platform. Recognizing the potential of Google Classroom to reduce the digital divide and improve the learning experience for students and teachers, this chapter highlights the importance of affordable and accessible educational tools in Nigerian educational institutions. Through case studies and practical examples, this chapter will show how Google Learning can be used in a resource-rich environment to empower educators and students in Nigerian institutions. In conclusion, “Google Classroom: A Smart and Simple Option for Online Education in Nigeria” highlights the revolutionary potential of Google Classroom as an affordable and accessible virtual learning environment. This chapter underscores the importance of leveraging technology to address the educational problems in Nigeria, emphasizing the role of Google Classroom in enabling remote learning and fostering educational equity. It is hoped that this exploration of Google Classroom will inspire educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to embrace innovative digital tools and leverage them to revolutionize education in Nigeria, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future of learning.

19. Conclusion

Online teaching and learning using Google Classroom are a powerful and promising way of delivering and receiving education in the twenty-first century, especially in the context of Nigeria, where education faces many challenges and opportunities. Google Classroom can provide many benefits and opportunities for Nigerian educators and learners, such as flexibility, convenience, accessibility, affordability, personalization, collaboration, innovation, and diversity. However, integrating Google Classroom for online teaching and learning is not without its challenges and barriers, such as lack of technology, internet connectivity, digital literacy, motivation, time management, academic integrity, and cultural diversity. Using Google Classroom also requires a supportive, nurturing environment, and a supportive, inclusive community that can foster a positive and productive online learning culture and climate.

20. Implications for education and online learning

This book chapter has several implications for education and online learning in Nigeria and beyond.

Google Classroom is a catalyst and catalyst for innovation and transformation in education, allowing educators and learners to explore new ways of teaching and learning, leverage new tools and technologies, and create new and relevant content and resources. It can be a driving force. Diversity and quality of education.
Google Classroom can connect teachers and learners across locations, levels, disciplines, and disciplines, facilitating the exchange of ideas, information, and experiences that can enhance learning and enrich processes and outcomes, this platform can be a medium for collaboration and integration in education.
Google Classroom provides teachers and learners with access to a wide variety of educational resources and reference materials, as well as professional development and lifelong learning opportunities to improve their knowledge and skills. Serves as a source and opportunity for educational development and support, and competencies are confidence, motivation, and satisfaction.

21. Recommendations/suggestions for future research/practice

Finally, this chapter has demonstrated the viability and affordability of Google Classroom as an online learning platform in Nigeria, and how it can address the educational problems and opportunities in the country. It is recommended that more Nigerian institutions adopt and integrate Google Classroom into their curricula and pedagogy and that more research is conducted on the impact and outcomes of using Google Classroom for online education in Nigeria.

Acknowledgments

I thank God Almighty for granting me good health to enable me to undertake this project. The successful completion of this book could not have been possible had it not been for the valuable contributions I found from the authors of the various books, journals, articles, and websites cited in this work.

References

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[1] 1. Talentlms. E-learning concepts, trends. applications. 2014. Available from: https://www.talentlms.com/elearning/elearning-101-jan2014-v1.1.pd

[2] 2. Waikato University. Introduction to e-Learning. New Zealand: Waikato University; 2023. Available from: www.waikato.ac.nz/tdu/pdf/booklets/17_eLearningIntro.pdf

[3] 3. Salawudeen OS. E-learning technology: The Nigeria experience. In: Shape the Change XXIII FIG Congress. Munich, Germany; 8-13 Oct 2006

[4] 4. Edusko. Top 23 best online learning platforms Nigeria beyond. 2023. Available from: https://edusko.com/

[5] 5. Google Classroom. Answer 9776888. 2023. Available from: https://classroom.google.com/edu/classroom/answer/9776888?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform=Desktop

[6] 6. Google Classroom. 2023. Available from: https://classroom.google.com/

[7] 7. Fapohunda O. Universities approved to operate distance learning centres in Nigeria. 2023. Available from: https://www.myschoolgist.com [Accessed: February 6, 2024]

[8] 8. Nairaland. 2023. Available from: https://www.nairaland.com/7950912/updated-list-approved-distance-learning

[9] 9. Google. Answer 6020270. 2023. Available from: https://support.google.com/edu/classroom/answer/6020270?hl=en-in&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid [Accessed: December 9, 2023]

[10] 10. Google. Google Android apps. 2023. Available from: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.classroom

[11] 11. Ahaslides. Best Google Classroom alternatives. 2023. Available from: https://ahaslides.com/blog/best-google-classroom-alternatives [Accessed: December 9, 2023]

[12] 12. Google Answer 6020273. 2023. Available from: https://support.google.com/edu/classroom/answer/6020273?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform=Desktop [Accessed: December 6, 2023]

[13] 13. Anderson J. Leveraging Google classroom for effective online teaching and learning. Journal of Educational Technology. 2020;45(3):123-140

[14] 14. Make Use of. How to create quiz Google Classroom. 2023. Available from: https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-create-quiz-google-classroom/ [Accessed: December 9, 2023]

[15] 15. Google. Workspace for education: Meet. 2023. Available from: https://edu.google.com/intl/ALL_us/workspace-for-education/meet/[Accessed: December 9, 2023]

[16] 16. Better Buys. Google Classroom vs canvas lms. 2023. Available from: https://www.betterbuys.com/lms/google-classroom-vs-canvas-lms/ [Accessed: February 7, 2024]

[17] 17. PCMag. Essential Google Classroom tips. 2023. Available from: https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/essential-google-classroom-tips [Accessed: February 6, 2024]

[18] 18. Keeler A. Create a progress report per student in Google Classroom. 2020. Available from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05VTho4BDMs [Accessed: February 6, 2023]

[19] 19. Google. Answer/6020273. 2023. Available from: https://support.google.com/edu/classroom/answer/6020273?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform=Desktop [Accessed: February 6, 2024]

[20] 20. Wheel House. Is Google Classroom an LMS a11. 2023. Available from: https://www.wheelhouse.com/resources/is-google-classroom-an-lms-a11058 [Accessed: February 6, 2024]

[21] 21. The Tech Edvocate (2023). How does Google Classroom compare to other learning management systems? 2023. Available from: https://www.thetechedvocate.org/how-does-google-classroom-compare-to-other-learning-management-systems/ [Accessed: February 7, 2024]

[22] 22. Yusuf M. Challenges of implementing Google classroom in Nigerian universities: A case study. Journal of Educational Technology Research. 2018;41(4):213-228

[23] 23. Anene JN, Imam H, Odumuh T. Problems and prospects of e-learning in Nigerian universities. International Journal of Technology and Inclusive Education (IJTIE). 2014;3(2):320-327

[24] 24. Google. How do I get into google classroom as a parent to monitor my son’s assignments? 2023. Available from: https://support.google.com/edu/classroom/thread/20168872/how-do-i-get-into-google-classroom-as-a-parent-to-monitor-my-sons-assignments?hl=en [Accessed: December 9, 2023]