Google has disabled access to Gemini AI for K-12 student accounts and is expanding guided learning features within Search and Classroom.

Last August, Google introduced a “guided learning” tool within Gemini. The company positions this tool as a “learning companion” designed to help students and teachers gain a deeper understanding of various subjects. In this guided learning mode, students can ask the AI ​​chatbot questions and receive detailed, step-by-step explanations to assist with their coursework. The tool can also generate practice exercises for students. Now, the Mountain View-based tech giant has announced that it is bringing this guided learning tool to two additional services: Google Search and Google Classroom. Furthermore, the company is granting schools greater control, enabling them to better manage how students use artificial intelligence.

Google to Provide Schools with Enhanced Controls
In a blog post on Tuesday, Google announced that it will disable access to Gemini, Gemini Notebook, Gemini in Classroom, and Google Search for K-12 student accounts, allowing schools to exercise greater oversight over how students interact with AI. School administrators, however, retain the option to enable access to these AI tools. Google stated that this decision was made based on input from schools, educators, leading researchers, and policymakers.

Additionally, the company announced the expansion of its guided learning mode to more services. Starting November 3, the guided learning tool will be integrated into Google Search and Google Classroom—a central platform for students and teachers to organize and share assignments, as well as communicate with one another.

In Google Classroom, when students begin working on guided learning tasks assigned by their teachers, the tool functions as a one-on-one learning aid, providing content tailored to the students’ specific classroom materials. Teachers can receive real-time feedback on student progress, allowing them to identify which topics may require additional focus.

Meanwhile, the “guided learning” tool within Google Search is designed to help students find answers without being given the solutions directly. According to the tech giant, when a search query indicates that a student is seeking help with a specific type of assignment, the tool guides them through the problem-solving process step-by-step, while providing relevant information along the way.

Notably, the guided learning feature within Google’s two new services will first be piloted in select U.S. schools for users with student accounts. However, the company plans to expand this feature to other school districts in the coming months and roll it out fully across its Search and Classroom services.