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Workspace

Overview

A workspace in Grader Than is an in-browser coding environment that’s set up for each student in your class. It provides students with the tools they need to complete assignments and work on projects, all within a controlled, pre-configured space. As a teacher, you can also access your own workspace to work alongside your students, adjust configurations, and monitor their progress. Each workspace is tied directly to your class, ensuring consistency and ease of use for both you and your students.

IDE

The Grader Than IDE is your coding hub, where you and your students can write and run code directly in the browser. Follow this step-by-step guide to open the IDE, explore its features, and get started with writing and running code.

Opening the IDE

The workspace comes with IDE (Integrated Development Environment), where you can write and run code. To open it:

  1. Go to your classroom page and click the button labeled Workspace Workspace Workspace at the top of the screen.
  2. A menu will appear. From here, press Open IDE.
  3. A new browser tab will open. It may take around 30 seconds for the workspace to fully start up.

Exploring the IDE

Once your workspace loads, you'll see the Grader Than IDE. This is where students will write and run their code. If you’re familiar with Visual Studio Code, this will feel very similar—it’s fully configured and ready to use right away.

Writing and Running Code

Let’s try writing and running some code! For this example, we’ll use Python.

  1. Create a new file:

    • On the left side of the screen, right-click on any blank space in the Explorer view.
    • In the menu that appears, click New File.
    • Name your file, try not to use spaces, and remember to add a file extension at the end of the file name. Press Enter when you are done.

  2. Write your code:

    • In the editor window in the middle of the screen, type your Python code.

  3. Run your code:

    • Once your code is ready, look for the Play button (triangle icon) in the upper right corner of the screen.
    • Click it, and your output will appear at the bottom of the screen in the terminal.

Desktop

In addition to the IDE, the Grader Than Desktop gives you a full, in-browser Linux environment to work in. Follow this tutorial to explore the desktop and see how it connects to your coding workspace.

Opening the Desktop

  1. From your classroom page and click the Workspace Workspace Workspace button.

  2. This time, select Open Desktop.

  3. The Grader Than Desktop will open in a new browser tab.

Understanding the Desktop

The desktop is connected to the IDE, meaning any changes you make in one will reflect in the other. The desktop is especially useful when developing applications that require graphical interfaces, like games. If you develop a game in the IDE and start it, it will display on the desktop.

Pre-installed Apps and Features

The Grader Than Desktop comes pre-installed with several applications, including GIMP for image editing, Firefox for web browsing, and Xterm for terminal that interacts with a traditional Linux environment. Your workspace runs on Linux Ubuntu, giving you access to a full-fledged development environment right in your browser.

Access Your Student's Workspace

  1. Open the My Class Page:

    • Start by opening the Create Icon Create Icon My Class section of your class page.
    • Scroll down until you reach the section labeled Your Students.

  2. Find the Student:

    • In the Your Students section, you’ll see a list of all the students enrolled in your class.
    • Find the student whose workspace you’d like to open, and click the Open Workspace button next to their name.

  3. Collaborate in Real-Time:

    • Once you’re in the student’s workspace, you can make changes that they will see instantly.
    • Similarly, any changes your student makes will be visible to you in real time.
    • This feature allows you to collaborate with your students directly, offering real-time support and monitoring their progress as they work.

Edit Workspace Settings

The Grader Than workspace comes with customizable settings that allow you to tailor the development environment for your students. Follow this guide to explore and configure your workspace.

Opening the Workspace Settings

  1. From your classroom page and click the Workspace Workspace Workspace button.

  2. In the menu that appears, select Settings.

Learn more about the workspace settings.

More Resources

  • Workspace Dependencies

    Learn how to add scripts and packages that will automatically run each time your students' workspaces start.

    Configure Dependencies

  • General Settings

    Explore the basic configuration options for your workspace, including metadata settings for class management.

    Adjust General Settings

  • Advanced Settings

    Fine-tune the hardware settings and advanced configurations for your workspace environment.

    Explore Advanced Settings

  • Troubleshooting

    Find solutions to common workspace issues and learn how to resolve them quickly.

    Troubleshoot Now