Google Classroom turns lessons into podcasts with Gemini
Google has launched a Gemini-powered tool in Google Classroom that transforms lesson content into podcast-style audio lessons to engage podcast-listening students and promote deeper comprehension of educational material.
Educators access the tool through the Gemini tab in Google Classroom. They select the appropriate grade level, define specific topics, and establish clear learning objectives to tailor the content to their classes.
Further customization options allow teachers to adjust the audio experience. These include choosing the number of speakers involved in the podcast and selecting conversational styles, such as interviews, roundtable discussions, or casual dialogues, to match preferred formats.
The feature rolls out to subscribers of Google Workspace Education Fundamentals, Standard, and Plus plans. This integration brings a popular media format directly into classroom workflows.
Research indicates that approximately 35 million Gen Z users in the U.S. listen to podcasts each month. Students demonstrate substantial engagement with audio content outside traditional settings.
Universities have expanded production of their own podcasts as educational resources. Students actively seek out these and other popular educational series during personal time, reflecting growing interest in audio-based learning.
Podcast-style lessons support independent learning practices. Students replay episodes to review material or catch up on content from missed classes, enabling flexible access to instruction.
Teachers face challenges in incorporating AI tools amid concerns over student reliance on generative AI, such as ChatGPT, for completing assignments.
Google recommends responsible AI practices. Teachers review and edit all AI-generated content to verify accuracy and ensure suitability for their classroom context and adherence to local policies.