Microsoft Teams has introduced new updates to enhance classroom productivity

In Kazakhstan, efforts to improve distance learning will continue to gain momentum. For teachers and institutions striving for digital transformation, this is the right time to explore new Microsoft Teams for Education features based on artificial intelligence technologies.

New AI features will help simplify assessment and lesson planning

Microsoft Teams for Education has introduced several innovative features aimed at simplifying lesson planning and enhancing the efficiency of managing learning processes. One such feature is the Generate Rubrics tool, which allows teachers to create customized assessment criteria for any subject with a single click.

Teachers can also use the feature to create detailed assignment instructions, enabling them to quickly develop assignments by defining learning objectives—the system will automatically generate detailed instructions for them, making the lesson planning process more efficient. Additionally, with the "Create Class Assignments Modules" feature, teachers can easily create comprehensive educational modules and curricula. Teachers can now add notes directly to PDF assignment documents and assign a contact person for each student to maintain communication with parents, ensuring they regularly receive progress reports. Teams also offers learning accelerators, including the "Reading Progress" tool, which helps students practice reading comprehension in both their native and foreign languages. Comprehension questions, previously created manually by teachers, can now be generated automatically by providing the AI with the relevant text, saving teachers' time.

Finally, teachers can take advantage of free generative artificial intelligence features, such as Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot. With Copilot, teachers can easily create lesson assignments and PDF summaries. Microsoft 365 Copilot integrates artificial intelligence features into Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Forms to create worksheets and automatically correct grades.

These updates will bring significant benefits to students as well. The Reading Coach feature will help improve reading skills by providing real-time information on reading speed and pronunciation accuracy, even in noisy environments. This will enable students to enhance their reading fluency and comprehension. The "Speaker Progress" tool will provide insights into presentation skills and offer feedback on tone of voice, body language, speech rate, and other factors contributing to effective communication. Students can share this information with their teachers, helping them achieve new heights.

In addition to these tools, Clipchamp offers students a comprehensive video editing platform available as a mobile, desktop, or web application. With advanced features like green screen functionality, students can engage in creative projects, especially in film studies. AI support in Clipchamp allows for automatic video generation, simplifying the creative process. 

Furthermore, Minecraft Education has been significantly updated. Participants in the educational gameplay can now save and open worlds directly from OneDrive, and advanced users can utilize the new automation table. The game includes many worlds that explain artificial intelligence concepts and address important topics such as ethics, ecology, and cybersecurity. The Microsoft team continues its efforts to provide educational institutions with innovative solutions that enhance the quality of learning for both teachers and students. In Kazakhstan, where the education system is actively developing, these updates will become an important tool for supporting the educational process. More information about AI capabilities and the latest Microsoft features is available at this link.