Google Workspace

Google Workspace


Tool Type

Productivity

Who Uses It?

Students, Instructors, Staff

Tags

IT Approved, Recommended by ATC



Difficulty

Beginner-Friendly

Accessibility Info

Google Workspace includes a wide range of apps that may not have features that are completely accessible due to their nature of visual editing. Review their accessibility info and VPATS(link is external) (click the blue question mark above to learn what a VPAT is) to see each tool's level of accessibility.

 

Tool Description

Google Workspace is a collection of cloud computing, productivity and collaboration tools, software and products developed and marketed by Google. It consists of Gmail, Contacts, Calendar, Meet and Chat for communication; Currents for employee engagement; Drive for storage; and the Google Docs Editors suite for content creation. An Admin Panel is provided for managing users and services.



Cost/Licenses

Provided by the College to All

How to Get or Use This Tool

Google Workspace is provided to students, faculty, and employees by default. Log into Google Workspace and related apps using your lanecc email address.


Platforms

Web-based, Mac OS, Window OS, Chrome OS, Mobile

Tool Resources

Pros

  • Enhanced Collaboration Tools:
    • Google Workspace provides real-time collaboration through all Google apps, including Docs, Calendar, and Drive.
    • Students can meet virtually using Google Meet and sync their Gmail and Google Calendar apps to receive reminders for assignments and scheduled meetings.
  • Access to Cloud Storage:
    • Google Drive offers upgradeable online storage, allowing students to store and access their files from anywhere.
  • Cost-Effective Solution:
    • Google Workspace is often more affordable than other productivity suites, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious students. (Free plan)
  • Unified Ecosystem:
    • The seamless integration of Google apps (Docs, Sheets, Drive, etc.) simplifies workflows.
    • Collaboration on shared documents is straightforward and efficient.

Cons

  • Privacy Considerations: Some express concerns about privacy due to Google’s data collection practices.
  • Slight Learning Curve: Transitioning to Google Workspace may require adjustment for students accustomed to other platforms. (Office, Atlassian, etc.)

Privacy

View Privacy Information

Similar Tools

MS Office 365, Atlassian, Notion

Supported By

Academic Technology Center (ATC) - atc@lanecc.edu, IT Help Desk - helpdesk@lanecc.edu, Library Student Help Desk - shed@lanecc.edu
Last Updated: 06/03/2024 - 16:43

Your Responsibilities


As a user of our Digital Tool Hub, it is your responsibility to use software in a manner that aligns with Lane's policies and standards. This includes protecting college resources and data by ensuring compliance with relevant policies, storing sensitive information in approved systems, and facilitating equitable access for all users, including those with disabilities.

You are individually accountable for any software installed on your devices and must adhere to the terms and conditions of software licenses. While we strive to provide support for a wide range of applications, please note that some may not be directly supported by the college. All software usage is subject to our policies, and you must review our guidelines on software procurement and licensing compliance. The college cannot be held liable for damages resulting from the installation or use of software obtained through our hub. We appreciate your cooperation in respecting copyright laws and using digital tools responsibly.

Relevant Policies:


Know of another tool used at Lane for education? Let us know by filling out this form and we can review it for the Digital Tool Hub!

Have any questions? Contact us at DigitalToolHub@lanecc.edu.

Accessible is defined as:

When considering the use of a digital tool with students in a classroom, prioritizing accessibility is essential. Accessibility is assessed through compliance with WCAG 2.0 standards. All softwares, where the primary user is students, in the Digital Tool Hub are accessible. Keep in mind there some exceptions due to the nature of the various types of software. The If a software is level of partial accessibility are outlined on each tool's page if a tool is partially accessible.

  • What is a VPAT: A Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT®) is a document that explains how information and communication technology products such as software, hardware, electronic content, and support documentation meet the Revised 508 Standards for IT accessibility. Check out Sonoma State University's article and learn how to read a VPAT.

How are the tags defined:

Tags can be changed at any time, so check in regularly for any software changes, recommendations, approval, etc.

Tags are defined as follows:

  • Recommended by ATC: This is a tool recommended by the Academic Technology Center (ATC) for faculty to use for its intended purposes.
  • IT Approved: The tool has been fully vetted for cybersecurity.
  • Free: The tool is completely free to Lane students, faculty, and staff, and has no features missing.
  • Free (Limited): The tool is completely free to Lane students, faculty, and staff, but has limited features compared to a licensed version.
  • User's Choice:This tool is used by many users and is highly regarded by students, faculty, and/or staff. This does not guarantee the tool is accessible for faculty to use in courses. Review additional tool information to ensure an informed decision regarding its suitability for faculty use in courses.

Difficulty is defined at each level as follows:

  • Beginner-Friendly: Requires basic familiarity with digital tools. Able to follow simple instructions and navigate intuitively. Benefit from clear guidance and encouragement.
  • Intermediate: Requires a moderate level of understanding of digital tools. Can explore deeper features and adapt to some customization. Able to engage and use with moderate complexity and seek help when needed.
  • Advanced: Requires advanced proficiency in using digital tools. Can navigate complex workflows and adapt to advanced customization. Able to innovate, contribute, and troubleshoot independently within the platform.