Challenge

Edmonton Public Schools (EPS) wanted to extend its innovative programs by providing students and teachers with easy-to-use online collaborative tools. Although the district already offered school-hosted email accounts and client productivity software, access to technology was limited, as was the use of online collaboration tools. Although students could connect to the district’s wireless network, they could not use software or tools without secure VPN access. Teachers were also struggling with different operating systems and software. They wanted to build a cohesive, collaborative learning community, so that students could work more easily with peers, and interact more productively with teachers.

"Several teachers have commented: Where has G Suite been all my career? And for many students, G Suite has resulted in improved learning and engagement."

Terry Korte, Technology integration planning coordinator

Solution

EPS ran a pilot program with G Suite for Education (formerly named Google Apps for Education), then slowly expanded the program. They found that it met and even exceeded their expectations, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Since moving to G Suite, collaboration has flourished across the district. Students and teachers are blogging about novels, working out math problems with Google Spreadsheets, sharing research projects and surveys using Google Docs, and creating sites with links, pictures, and videos with Google Sites. G Suite has also solved the issue of dealing with different operating systems and software across mobile devices. Sharing and collecting material is more seamless and efficient for teachers, who are also better able to track homework and assignments. Above all, G Suite has boosted student creativity and their enthusiasm for learning and collaborating.

Organization Profile

Edmonton Public Schools (EPS) in Alberta, Canada, is renowned for its innovations in education. The school district often hosts school district representatives from around the world who are hoping to learn from EPS as a model for success in public education.