Unlock new possibilities in your teaching with the latest Google Gemini updates! Last month, I shared that Google Gemini was available for staff.  Since then, Gemini has introduced powerful advanced features designed to enhance your workflow and enrich your lessons. Let's explore three key tools now available to you. Please remember that Gemini is currently only available for staff.

1. Deep Research: your AI assistant

Gemini’s Deep Research feature is like a personal research assistant, designed to handle complex research tasks by breaking them down into smaller steps, searching the web for relevant information, and then synthesizing the findings into comprehensive reports. You can generate 10 deep research reports a month for free. 

Things to note: 

• You need to select “Deep Research” from the Gemini search box.
• Deep research is not fast. It can take 10-20 minutes to compile your research report. 
• The results will include citations and additional sources to review.

How to use deep research with Gemini 

• Simplifying Complex Concepts: When preparing a lesson on genetics, you could ask Gemini to “explain the process of DNA replication in simple terms, highlighting key vocabulary.”
• Exploring Current Events with Context: When discussing a current event like renewable energy technologies, you could ask Gemini to “summarize the latest advancements in solar and wind power, including their environmental and economic impacts, citing recent reports and studies.”

2. Gems: tailored AI assistance 

Gemini Gems are specialized AI assistants that have been fine-tuned with particular instructions and knowledge to excel in a specific task.

Things to note: 

• You have unlimited access to Gems. 
• Creating a Gem takes time. You will need to refine your instructions until you are happy with the responses you are receiving

How to use Gems 

• Develop Subject-Specific Tutors: Curate a math tutor gem that can explain concepts in different ways or provide practice problems at various difficulty levels 
• Create Bell Ringer Gem: Design a bell ringer gem that can generate quick, engaging start-of-class activities tailored to the day's lesson topic

Want more support with Gems? Check out this how to use Gems guide

3. Canvas: Co-Write with Gemini

Gemini now features "Canvas," a dynamic workspace for developing longer text through collaboration with the AI. Unlike single interactions, Canvas allows you to generate initial content, then edit and refine within the output. You can ask it to elaborate, rewrite, or provide examples within the evolving document. 

Things to note: 

• You need to select “Canvas” from the Gemini search box.
• You can export your Canvas to Google Docs

How to use Canvas in Gemini

• Develop detailed lesson plans: Generate initial drafts of procedures, questions, and assessment ideas, then customize them  
• Create engaging learning resources: Co-write instructional materials blending the power of AI and your expertise to tailor for your students
• Design Rubrics: Collaborate on clear and measurable rubric language

I encourage you to explore these tools and discover how they can streamline your workflows, enrich your lessons, and empower your students. Reach out if you'd like to explore these features further together!