Google Apps for Education

Hi all,

I'm currently experimenting with Google as a replacement for our Virtual Learning Environment. We've come accross a few hurdles.....

1.Our current VLE has a number of assessment/handing- in/grading tools, google has nothing specific although it allows for instant feedback and collaboration. We haven't tried the forms function yet so this may answer the question. Has anyone else used google in assessment?

2.Tracking. Our current system also has a tracking facility; tutors can logon and see students progression using a traffic light system. This is not possible as far as I'm aware with Google. My ideal would be to use a seperate tracking system as this is mainly for tutors but embed a widget in the student desktop so they have the option to track their own performance. What have other people done? Any ideas?

3. Individual Learning Planners. These are linked to the current tracking facility and allow students to set targets and monitor their own progress. Perhaps we can use Google sites to build a personal profile/ILP? In an ideal world I'd like them to use something similar to Facebook, but there are obvious security and tracking issues - any ideas?

Finally, is there anyone out there who has worked on a similar project in UK FE?

Sorry for splurging - any advice/ideas will be gratefully recieved!!!

Many Thanks in anticipation :-)