In an era where technology is becoming increasingly embedded in the educational framework, eight universities and schools across the United States are embracing Google AI tools to enhance learning and efficiency. The initiatives leverage both Google’s Gemini and NotebookLM, focusing on improving student engagement, administrative efficiency, and personal learning experiences. Each institution has found unique ways to incorporate these advanced AI applications, reflecting their commitment to innovative education.
On March 20, 2025, Google published insights on how various educational institutions are transforming their teaching methods and administrative processes using cutting-edge AI technology. Leading the charge is the University of California Riverside (UCR), where students are utilizing NotebookLM not only to streamline their study processes but also to engage in meaningful debates. CIO Matthew Gunkel stated, “We need to prepare [students] for a future where they’ll need to know how to leverage AI tools effectively in their work environments.” He added that the Gemini app empowers the entire institution with private and secure generative AI at scale while ensuring proper safety protocols are established.
Wake Forest University has taken a more administrative approach to using Google AI, employing Gemini in their meetings to automate note-taking, allowing faculty to focus more on discussions rather than documentation. Additionally, the provost's office is harnessing NotebookLM for summarizing documents and conducting large-scale data analyses. CIO Mur Muchane noted a significant productivity boost, saying, “A task that took eight hours was reduced to 30 minutes using Gemini.” This efficiency gain demonstrates how AI can significantly enhance academic administration.
At San Diego State University (SDSU), both students and faculty are utilizing Gemini and NotebookLM to enhance learning and optimize teaching methods. Students receive real-time assistance for studies and writing projects, while faculty benefit from these tools to improve lectures and foster greater student engagement. Dr. James P. Frazee, CIO at SDSU, mentioned, “Enabling Gemini made perfect sense because it integrates with our existing Google Workspace environment, which is already deeply embedded in how our students, faculty, and staff collaborate and learn.”
Boise State University is also tapping into Google AI for creative purposes; marketing and communication professionals use Gemini to inspire new ideas for content creation. According to Leif Nelson, Executive Director of Learning Technology Solutions and Research Computing, “Since we already use Google for our email, document management, presentations, and other aspects of our work, it was a no-brainer to utilize Gemini because it most easily integrates with these existing environments and workflows.”
In the realm of K-12 education, the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) are employing Google AI tools for curriculum assessment and district-wide guidance. Staff members are developing Gems as curriculum reviewers by uploading and reviewing information against CPS guidelines. Lorne Rodriguez, CPS's manager of enterprise generative AI, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “NotebookLM and Gemini are helping people experiment with GenAI in exciting ways, transforming the way they work and allowing them to streamline tasks that would otherwise consume their time.”
Miami-Dade County Public Schools are seeing similar successes as educators use Gemini to craft quizzes and answer keys for classroom use. Students, too, are taking advantage of the technology, creating personalized study materials and obtaining immediate support from Gemini while teachers are otherwise occupied. Superintendent Dr. Jose L. Dotres highlighted the importance of tailored AI support, asserting that “Gemini for teens will provide our high school students with focused support in a safer environment with appropriate safeguards.”
Teachers at Albuquerque Public Schools report increased efficiency, with Gemini facilitating the rapid development of personalized lesson plans. What used to take hours can now be completed in a fraction of the time, leading to more focused attention on student needs. STEM teacher Natali Barretto shared her excitement: “With Gemini, my planning is so fast and easy. I can adapt my lesson plan to the needs of my students, and it can give me more ideas. I feel like I can give more attention to my students and projects using AI rather than spending my whole afternoon or weekends working on planning.”
The Ottawa Catholic School Board is also benefiting from Google AI by using Gemini to create personalized learning experiences for students with diverse needs. This innovative approach empowers students to seek help and deepen their understanding of various concepts. Teacher Tara Potter noted, “[Gemini] really empowers the students to make sure that they’re gaining these skills so that they can take them with them to whatever role they end up being, whether that’s postsecondary or in the world of work.”
With the recent addition of Mind Maps to NotebookLM on March 21, 2025, Google continues to expand the possibilities for education stakeholders to visualize and understand complex information easily. Mind Maps help users navigate topics effectively, streamline their study processes, and encourage a better grasp of subject material.
As educational institutions increasingly adapt to incorporating AI into their curriculums, the transformations seen at these eight universities and schools mark a significant step towards revolutionizing the educational landscape. By leveraging technology thoughtfully and purposefully, these institutions not only enhance learning experiences but also prepare students for the increasingly AI-centric world in which they will live and work.
