Google has recently announced an array of new AI-powered features aimed at revolutionizing the educational sector. These features, unveiled at the Bett ed-tech event in the UK, are set to enhance classroom management, accessibility, and facilitate the creation of interactive learning materials. Let's delve into these features and understand how they can benefit educators and students alike.

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AI-Powered Classroom Management and Accessibility Tools

1. AI-Enhanced Question Creation: Google now allows educators to add AI-generated questions to YouTube videos within Classroom assignments, offering a more interactive learning experience​​.
2. Practice Sets in Over 50 Languages: Utilizing AI, educators can now create answers and general hints in practice sets, available in more than 50 languages. Additionally, Google Forms can be converted into practice sets​​.
3. eSignature Facility in Google Workspace: Educators can easily collect signatures for approvals or contracts, streamlining administrative tasks​​.
4. Updated Classroom Analytics: This feature enables educators to monitor assignment completion and grade trends, offering insights into student performance​​.

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Enhancing Accessibility and Inclusion in Education

1. Text-to-Speech in ChromeOS: Google is adding the ability to extract text from PDFs for screen readers on ChromeOS, along with text-to-voice capabilities in Chrome's Reading Mode​​.
2. Improved Google Meet Accessibility: Features like closed captions in 30 languages and the ability to pin multiple video tiles have been added to Google Meet, enhancing accessibility for diverse learning needs​​.

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Connectivity and Collaboration Enhancements

1. Google Classroom Assignments on Chromebook Home Screens: Upcoming assignments will now be visible directly on the home screen of Chromebooks​​.
2. No Cost Learning Tools Interoperability: This feature, available for Canvas and Schoology users, enables seamless integration with Google Meet and other tools​​.
3. Introduction of the App Hub: Slated to be available in over 10 languages, the App Hub will provide access to third-party add-ons and integrations, enhancing the educational toolset​​.

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Security and Safety in Digital Learning Environments

1. New Cybersecurity Controls: Google is introducing controls to require administrator approval for changing sensitive configuration settings and ease the integration with third-party applications​​.

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Launch of New Chromebooks and Google Workspace Updates

1. 15 New Chromebook Models: Google is set to launch 15 new Chromebook models with extended features and updates​​.
2. Updates to Google Workspace for Education: Google Workspace for Education is launching new features across Classroom, Meet, Docs, and Slides to further support students and educators​​.

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These new AI-powered features by Google are a leap forward in enhancing the educational experience. They not only simplify the administrative tasks for educators but also provide a more inclusive, accessible, and collaborative learning environment for students. As technology continues to evolve, these innovations in the educational sector promise a more engaging and effective learning experience.

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Sources for Further Reading:

1. TechCrunch - Google announces new AI-powered features for education
2. SiliconANGLE - Google for Education receives new AI and accessibility features
3. THE Journal - Google Announces New Education Features and AI Tools, New Chromebooks