Google Classroom on Windows

Google Classroom is Google's blended learning platform, a learning management system where teachers publish assignments and students hand in their work. On a Windows PC you do not need a separate download: Classroom runs in the browser at classroom.google.com, and you can pin it like an app for quick access.

Who it is for

Classroom is built for schools, teachers and students, but it also suits tutors, clubs and anyone who runs a course for a group. Teachers create a class, invite students, post materials and assignments, and give feedback and grades in one place. Students see what is due, open the materials and submit work without swapping files by email. On a Windows computer it is particularly handy for longer tasks: writing an essay, preparing a presentation or checking a pile of submissions is easier with a full keyboard and a large screen than on a phone. If your school already uses Google accounts, Classroom fits in with the rest of its tools, so there is little new to learn.

Key facts

How to start on a PC

1. Open classroom.google.com in Chrome, Edge or another modern browser.
2. Sign in with the account your school gave you, or with a personal Google account.
3. Join a class with the code or invitation from your teacher, or create a class if you teach.
4. To use it like an app, install it from the browser menu or pin the tab to the taskbar.

Google's Classroom help page explains the sign-in and joining steps in more detail.

Tips for students and teachers

Turn on browser notifications for Classroom, or check it at a fixed time each day, so due dates do not slip by. Name files clearly before attaching them, and open an assignment once more after handing it in to be sure the right file went through. Teachers save time by reusing posts across classes and by writing short, specific instructions: a list of what a good answer contains is easier to follow than a long paragraph. On a shared family computer, use separate browser profiles so each person stays signed in to their own account.

Privacy and security

Use the account your school provides for schoolwork, because school administrators manage its settings and data rules. Do not install unofficial "Classroom for PC" programs from download portals: the real service is the website and Google's official apps, and look-alikes may collect your login. Sign out on shared computers.

For developers

Schools that connect their own systems to Classroom can follow API changes in Google's documentation changelog.

Pros and cons

• Pro: free to start and simple to use.
• Pro: works in any modern browser.
• Pro: fits with other Google tools.
• Con: needs an internet connection.
• Con: features depend on what your school has enabled.

Alternatives

For documents and spreadsheets used alongside a class, our listings include Google Sheets, Microsoft Word and LibreOffice, while Notion helps organise notes and materials.