GoGuardian is widely used in US schools to manage and monitor student activity on Chromebooks. It is a filtering software that aims to block inappropriate content and maintain online safety for students, though it is sometimes seen as an invasion of privacy.
On this page, I will discuss the top 3 features of it and how to use the software in detail.
What is the GoGuardian
It is an educational technology company that provides software solutions for K-12 schools, including:
- Classroom Management
- Web Filtering
- Mobile Device Management (MDM)
- Student Safety Solutions
- Data Analytics and Reporting
The company was founded by Advait Shinde, Tyler Shaddix, and Aza Steel in 2014, and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California. GoGuardian’s mission is to empower educators with tools to create positive and productive learning environments in the digital age.
Top 3 Features
Here are the top 3 features of GoGuardian in detail:
1. Student Safety
The Student Safety feature of the app is crucial for ensuring the well-being of students in a digital learning environment. It employs advanced algorithms to scan online activities for potential safety concerns, swiftly alerting school staff to take appropriate action. By identifying flagged keywords or phrases that may indicate distress, the system provides an early warning mechanism.
The platform goes further by detecting language suggestive of suicidal thoughts or intentions, enabling timely interventions and support. GoGuardian also excels in recognizing self-harm indicators, ensuring schools can promptly offer necessary assistance. By monitoring online interactions, helps prevent instances of bullying or harassment, reinforcing a safe digital learning environment.
Operating around the clock, this system guarantees continuous vigilance, even outside regular school hours, and generates comprehensive reports for staff review. The integration with crisis hotlines allows for immediate responses when urgent assistance is required, and customizable alert thresholds enable schools to align safety alerts with their specific protocols.
2. Classroom Management
The Classroom Management feature in GoGuardian allows educators to monitor and guide student activities in real time, enhancing the digital learning environment. Teachers can see students’ activities on their devices, allowing for timely interventions and tailored support.
The ability to share screens and broadcast specific student screens facilitates seamless instruction and collaboration. Remote screen locking helps refocus student attention when necessary. Educators can control web access and application usage, ensuring students stay on task and use appropriate resources.
The messaging and chat functions foster direct communication between teachers and students, enabling quick clarifications and support.
Additionally, the feature includes tools like internet pausing and time management controls, which help educators manage class time effectively. The inclusion of student thumbnails provides an efficient way to monitor multiple students simultaneously.
3. Filtering & Monitoring
GoGuardian’s Filtering & Monitoring feature is designed to help schools control students’ access to online content, ensuring they stay focused on educational materials while avoiding distractions or inappropriate material. This feature includes category-based filtering, customizable policies, and safe search enforcement.
Real-time activity monitoring allows educators to track student engagement and intervene when necessary. Additionally, schools can whitelist or blacklist specific websites, offering further customization options. Time-based policies and SSL inspection add layers of control and security.
Alerts and notifications enable educators to promptly address policy violations or potential safety concerns. Through detailed data and insights, schools can make informed decisions regarding their digital learning strategies.
How to log in and use the app
- Open a web browser and visit the GoGuardian login page.
- Enter your provided credentials (username and password).
- Access the dashboard to manage settings, view activity, and utilize features based on your role (teacher, student, or administrator).
- Follow your school’s policies and guidelines for using GoGuardian.
How to get started with the app (Parents)
- Download the GoGuardian Parent application from the Apple App Store or Google Play after receiving approval from the school’s IT Administrator or district’s IT Administrator.
- Open the App and enter the email address associated with your school’s administration for authentication.
- Upon successful entry, you’ll receive an email with a verification link. Click the Verify Your Email link/button in your email to log in. If the link does not work for any reason, use the PIN to complete the Verification step.
- Review the terms and conditions provided in the app, ensuring you read to the bottom of the text before pressing “I Agree“. If you encounter any issues, ensure your device has an active internet connection, reopen the app, and try again.
- After signing in, select your child’s student account to review their activity. Depending on administrative settings, you’ll have access to various information regarding their browsing behavior and interactions with GoGuardian teachers such as the top 5 visited domains and domains logged within the Chrome browser, etc.
- If suspect any unusual activity, you can use the app to configure website filtering settings and manage internet access for your child. To do this just click on the Filters option and then on + ADD WEBSITE icon to block the domain. Please note filtering services are not allowed during school hours.
Benefits
The app offers several benefits for both parents and educators:
- It allows parents and guardians to have a direct line of communication with their child’s school.
- In the event of an emergency, the app also provides peace of mind for parents, knowing that they can check in on their child’s whereabouts and activities during the school day.
- It provides parents with access to their child’s academic progress. Parents can see how their child is doing in class and track their progress over time. This information can be used to help support and guide your child’s academic journey.
- Parents can view upcoming events, such as field trips or school concerts, and RSVP or sign up for volunteer opportunities. This makes the parents stay updated on school events.
How to get rid of GoGuardian
It is a tool that helps schools monitor and manage student activity on Chromebooks. Tampering with it could violate school policies. If you face issues or believe it’s causing problems, contact your school’s IT department or a teacher for assistance.
FAQs
Q.1 How does it work?
A. GoGuardian monitors students’ internet activity and blocks inappropriate content. It can also send alerts for suspicious activity.
Q.2 Is it effective at preventing cyberbullying?
A. Yes, it can detect indicators of cyberbullying, such as flagged keywords or phrases, and alert school staff.