Google Classroom has been steadily improving since it’s release almost two years ago. What started out as a solid, but still pretty basic way to deliver/manage content with students is growing into a powerhouse. The best part, what Google does with it is based in large part on what we, as educators, want and need.

Google has had the ‘Ask a Question’ feature for a while now… and that feature just got better.

Classroom now has polling. A simple way to get a quick response from students. Think exit tickets, without the ticket. Want to learn how to make polling happen for you? Here goes.

First, log into your Google Classroom and click the PLUS symbol in the lower right corner. You are then going to click ASK A QUESTION, as shown below.

Next, change the response type from SHORT ANSWER to MULTIPLE CHOICE.

You can also change the toggle to allow students to see the class summary or not.

Finally, click the ASK button, as always, and the question goes live.

It couldn’t be much easier. Now, remember, EdTech is a tool, not a replacement for solid teaching. Everything should begin with an objective, then allow the tech to enhance a lesson. Doing a lesson simply because you can find a way to use the technology can be counter-intuitive. Multiple choice questioning has its place. Polling is a great use for it, if you want some quick numbers… just remember, multiple choice questioning also limits possible responses. You will often get much more meaningful answers by allowing students to utilize the short answer option over the multiple choice.

For other posts about Google Classroom, click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE. Of course, the Guru of all things Google is Alice Keeler, if you want to get down to the nitty gritty about how things work, click HERE. Her website is a great resource.