Google has announced the release of new AI tools for its Google Workspace for Education, including the introduction of Gemini, aimed at enhancing learning experiences for teen students. This move is part of Google’s broader commitment to making AI helpful in educational settings and beyond, according to blog.google.
Helping Teen Students Learn Responsibly with Gemini
Google’s new AI tool, Gemini, is designed to prepare teens with the skills and tools necessary to thrive in a future where generative AI (GenAI) plays a significant role. Gemini offers guided support, in-the-moment assistance, practice materials, and real-time feedback, aiming to build students’ confidence and creativity.
Last year, Google introduced a responsible Gemini experience for teens using their personal Google Accounts. This initiative was developed in consultation with child safety and development experts to ensure safety and reliability. Building on this foundation, Google has continued to partner with learning science experts and youth advisory panels to enhance the tool’s safety and effectiveness.
Enhanced Safety Measures and Data Protection
Google has committed to extra data protection for all education users, ensuring that data from chats will not be used to improve AI models. This initiative is part of Google’s effort to bring AI technology to students responsibly.
In the coming months, Gemini will be made available to teen students who meet Google’s minimum age requirements while using their Google Workspace for Education accounts. This service will be free of charge for all educational institutions in over 100 countries. To maintain control, Gemini will be off by default for teens until school administrators choose to activate it through the Admin console.
Features for a Safe and Effective Learning Experience
Google has implemented several features to ensure a responsible and useful experience for younger students:
- Gemini is tuned to identify and prevent the display of inappropriate content, such as illegal or age-restricted substances.
- The tool includes a double-check response feature, which cross-references content across the web to substantiate its responses, promoting information literacy and critical thinking skills.
- An AI Literacy video endorsed by ConnectSafely and FOSI is included in the teen-friendly onboarding process, offering tips on responsible AI usage.
- The Learning Coach, a custom version of Gemini powered by LearnLM, will provide step-by-step study guidance and practice activities like quizzes and games.
- Extensions from OpenStax and Data Commons will offer information from trusted sources to aid student learning.
These initiatives reflect Google’s ongoing commitment to integrating AI in education responsibly, equipping students with the tools and knowledge necessary for an AI-driven future.
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