Google launches ‘Guided Learning’ to support student engagement and understanding

Google has launched a new feature called “Guided Learning,” aimed at helping students understand topics through an interactive and step-by-step approach rather than simply giving direct answers.

Powered by Google’s LearnLM, a model developed specifically for learning and education, Guided Learning is designed to adapt to individual learning styles.

It encourages students to engage with the subject matter through open-ended questions and visual tools, including diagrams, quizzes, videos, and images.

According to Google, the feature provides explanations that build upon each other and guide students through a process of discovery.

In a blog post, the company said, "Guided Learning was created as a safe space for students to ask questions they might have initially thought of. The aim was for the feature to provide both quick answers and detailed explanations."

It added that the tool was developed to be conversational and judgment-free, giving users the freedom to explore academic content at their own pace.

Educators were actively involved in the development of Guided Learning, with the goal of extending learning beyond traditional classrooms and encouraging deeper understanding.

Teachers can now share a dedicated link with students or post it directly in Google Classroom, making it easier to integrate the tool into their lessons.

The feature is also available through Gemini, where students can explore lessons supported by years of input from researchers, experts, and teachers, forming the backbone of the LearnLM model.

In addition to Guided Learning, Google has rolled out new capabilities in AI Mode to further support academic tasks.

Students can now upload images or PDF documents to AI Mode on desktop and ask questions directly related to the content, whether it’s a school assignment or a textbook excerpt.

Users can also pose follow-up questions and expand their understanding using lesson-related materials.

Google has also introduced the Canvas feature in AI Mode, allowing users to organize data and study plans across multiple sessions.

By tapping on AI Mode and selecting the “Create Canvas” button, students can start building structured schedules or learning guides for upcoming exams.

Once activated, AI Mode collects relevant information on the Canvas side panel and allows users to refine the content through follow-ups.

Additional context, such as a syllabus or class notes, can soon be added to enhance study aids further.