Remote Teaching with Microsoft Teams and Google GSuite
Wed 18 March, 2020
During our last update regarding the Coronavirus/Covid-19 pandemic we mentioned the remote teaching tools available to schools from Microsoft and Google. We wanted to provide an additional update to this and outline more information on what we can offer.
Both Microsoft Teams and Google GSuite are unified communication and collaboration platforms that combine workplace chat, video meetings, file storage, and application integration. The service integrates with the schools Office 365 or existing Google setup.
The management team at Soft Egg has made the decision to offer a ‘standard setup’ of either of these platforms at no charge to our contracted Support schools that are currently using them. Meaning access to information and collaboration can be achieved through most devices with a web browser for staff and pupils.
We are also offering a more advanced setup that would see existing server data moved to the cloud giving access to staff and admin files anywhere you work, this would be specific to individual schools.
Please contact us to fine out more.
To cover any queries, you may have around these solutions we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions.
Q: What are Microsoft Teams and GSuite?
A: For more information please refer to the following links –
Teams: Click here to watch a video of Teams in Education
GSuite: Click here to read more about G Suite for Education
Q: What are the benefits of these platforms?
A:
- Communication with pupils individually and at a class level.
- Send web links to a whole class.
- Set assignments / quizzes for a class to complete
- Work collaboratively on documents, spreadsheets, presentations
- Access to school shared data remotely (advanced only)
- Access to existing planning files (advanced only)
- Relieve pressure on existing remote access for keyworkers
Q: Is there a licensing cost to use Microsoft Teams or GSuite?
A: Both organisations offer the platforms to Education for free. If you’re already using either platform then you have already been made eligible for it.
Q: If schools close, can this be setup remotely.
A: Yes, we can configure all the outlined services remotely.
Q: If we move data to the cloud, do I still need my backup?
A: Yes. We still recommend that data is backed up, even if moved to the cloud. Both Microsoft and Google will provide some security to your data but this does not entirely cover you against:
- Accidental deletion
- Hackers, Ransomware and other forms of malware
- Malicious insiders
We can offer a backup service, which provides a quick and easy way to recover lost files. Please contact us to discuss this further.
Q: If we are interested in acquiring these services, how quickly can you get them set up?
A: Current demand is high. Please call us to find out more.