Have you heard the buzz about Chromebooks? Whether you’ve heard they’re being used by 40 million educators worldwide, or the fact that Chromebooks posted their best year in 2020, there is no denying their popularity. Which may make you wonder: why do schools use Chromebooks?
Today, we’ll answer that question and unlock why these devices are so popular, particularly in education.
What is a Chromebook?
Before we answer that question, we’re going to answer another: what is a Chromebook? A Chromebook is a type of laptop that runs on Chrome OS. Most work on a Chromebook is done via the internet, so having a reliable internet connection is essential. This doesn’t mean your Chromebook turns into a brick offline, but internet connection is necessary to provide vital updates, as well as sync and host apps.
Why do Schools Use Chromebooks?
First introduced in 2011, Chromebooks have only grown in popularity in both education and retail sectors. Four times as many Chromebooks were sold in 2020 than in 2019. In large part, this can be attributed to the shift to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, Chromebook sales continue to soar. They continue to be a popular choice for schools, especially those with an existing 1:1 digital learning program. Here’s why:
Price Tag
Perhaps the simplest answer as to why schools use Chromebooks is their price tag. The cost of a Chromebook simply can’t be beat. With some models less than a $100, the average price for a Chromebook for education runs from $150-300. Not only that, but Chromebooks have a low lifetime cost, generally requiring little maintenance or repair.
Secure
Operating system updates and vital security patches come directly from Google. There is no need for antivirus software, virus protection is integrated with these updates. Generally, these updates run automatically and in the background without disrupting users. Knowing your K-12 devices are protected without having to lift a finger give tremendous peace of mind to schools.
One thing to note about these updates: Chromebooks only receive updates until their Auto Update Expiration date. This date signifies when Google will no longer support the model. On a new Chromebook, you can expect a lifespan of eight years. However, the clock starts when the device is manufactured, not when the device is purchased. If you purchased a 2020 Chromebook with an AUE of June 2028 today, you would have less than seven years to use the device safely.*
Low Maintenance & Easy to Deploy
With automatic updates provided by Google, there is very little to do in terms of maintenance. There is little to no software to maintain or update. Plus, Chromebooks are lean in hardware making them less susceptible to damage (not to mention lightweight!).
Equally easy is deployment. All that is needed is a Google account to get started.
Naturally though, as Chromebooks are used and transported, damage is bound to occur. Here’s the good news—they’re easy to repair and parts are generally affordable. Many tech departments opt to perform repairs in house.
Long Battery Life
With most models boasting a battery life of ten plus hours, Chromebooks can easily power students through an entire school day with charge to spare.
Easy to Use
Chromebooks offer a straightforward user experience. Using a Chromebook is as simple as opening your internet browser. No fancy frills or hoops to jump through, making completing assignments and participation a cinch.
When managing your K-12 Chromebooks, be sure to partner with a company you can trust to assist with all your 1:1 Chromebook needs. From Chromebook parts to buyback, AGParts Education supports 6,000+ school districts across the United States. Contact us today to see how we can help your school district today.
What is the best type of device for your district? Chromebooks are stripped down laptops with a straightforward user experience. Windows laptops and MacBooks are more complicated devices but have their own benefits. Today, we’ll discuss Chromebook vs laptop for students, and what the best option is for your district.
What is a Chromebook? What is a Laptop?
A Chromebook is a type of laptop that runs on Chrome OS. Most work on a Chromebook is done via the internet, so having a reliable internet connection is essential. This doesn’t mean your Chromebook turns into a brick offline, but internet connection is necessary to provide vital updates, as well as sync and host apps.
In the simplest terms, a laptop is a portable computer, created as the compact and portable version of desktop computer. Notebooks are a thinner version and lighter version of a laptop, and Ultrabooks are thinner and lighter than notebooks typically with loads of features. For the purposes of this article, a laptop refers to any non-Chromebook portable computer, specifically a Windows laptop or MacBook.
Chromebook vs Laptop Side by Side
Operating System
Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, an operating system designed by Google. Windows laptops run on Windows, an operating system designed by Microsoft. Finally, MacBooks run on macOS engineered by Apple.
Each operating system carries its own strengths and weakness, and much is subjective to the user. Chrome OS and macOS have the most straightforward interfaces, making them easier to use for students, while Windows is most complex. MacOS is most intuitive when it comes to multitasking and having multiple applications and windows open. Chrome OS is likely the least multitasking friendly. Ultimately, this all comes down to the students’ needs.
Software & Applications
This is one of the biggest differences when comparing a Chromebook vs laptop. Chromebooks have virtually no software. Most applications run in Google Chrome. Applications are downloaded from the Google Play Store, and no third-party software can be installed on a Chromebook. This makes them boot very quickly.
Both Windows laptops and MacBooks have software, sometimes pre-installed, or bundled, software. Additionally, users often install software packages like Office 365 or Adobe.
No software makes Chromebooks extremely easy to deploy and manage. Setup on a Chromebook is generally simpler than its counterparts. Updates are generally easier to manage, and there is no need for your technology department to install software on hundreds, or thousands, of devices.
Storage
When comparing devices, you may be shocked to see how little local storage a Chromebook needs, especially when compared to its Windows laptop and MacBook counterpart. Chromebooks can run on as little as 16GB of local storage. This is largely due to no software. Additionally, Chromebooks rely on Google Drive as their cloud-based storage system.
Although a Windows laptop and MacBook both have their own cloud-based storage, they still boast a large amount of local storage. It is not uncommon to find a laptop with 128GB to 256GB to as much as 1TB. There really is no upper limit in terms of storage
Again, this makes Chromebooks very attractive to schools. Less storage means less money per device.
Virus Protection & Security
Another big difference in Chromebooks vs laptops—virus protection. Google designed Chromebooks with security in mind. For Chromebooks, there is very little to attack, which makes them protected and secure devices. Google delivers updates and vital security patches automatically until the Chromebook’s AUE. These updates require little to no maintenance or oversight making the process easy peasy.
Windows laptops, and MacBooks, are much more complicated devices. MacBooks are generally considered secure devices as macOS has many protections in place against viruses and malware.
On the other hand, Windows laptops are most vulnerable to viruses and malware. They own the market share, making them a more attractive target to malware makers. And while Windows does come with Windows Defender, these laptops generally require a third-party antivirus software in addition. This translates to more maintenance and oversight when using Windows laptops.
In this case, save the headache—Chromebooks are the easiest and bring most peace of mind in knowing your students and devices are protected.
Maintenance
Expect Chromebooks to require the least amount of maintenance, largely due to no software and integrated virus protection with automatic updates from Google. Generally, Chromebooks are also easy to repair in house. This is another attraction—repair can be as simple as ordering a part and watching a tutorial. We have a complete library of 175+ Chromebook repair tutorials for a variety of models.
Expect a Windows laptop to require the most maintenance in managing software updates and any other issues that may arise.
Price
While Chromebooks and some Windows laptops come in at comparable price points, MacBooks are the most expensive device. Unless your district plans to buy a refurbished model, expect to pay an upwards of $1,000 per device.
Chromebooks and Windows laptops for education are affordable and you can generally find models between $200-$400.
Chromebook vs Laptop: The Winner?
Chromebooks make an extremely compelling case for any district. Low price, low maintenance, and easy to use, Chromebooks have everything a student would need for their work. Ultimately though, the winning device all comes down to the needs of your district and students.
When it comes to your 1:1 Chromebooks, AGParts Education has your back. From Chromebook parts to buyback, we support 6,000+ US school districts. Contact us today to see how we can help your school district today.
Chromebooks are a popular choice for digital learning programs across the nation. With many benefits, they offer schools an affordable way to equip their students with computers. Running on the Chrome OS, Google also offers a comprehensive cloud-based office package designed for schools, Google Workspace for Education.
What is Google Workspace for Education?
Formerly G Suite for Education, Google Workspace for Education is a set of cloud-based applications to streamline classroom instruction.
Announced in February 2021, Google Workspace for Education includes all the products that 170 million educators and students worldwide rely on including Classroom, Meet, Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and more.
What’s included in Google Workspace for Education?
Google Workspace for Education includes 13 products for collaboration, productivity, communication, and organization, plus an admin tool.
Collaboration
A consistent challenge in remote or hybrid learning models is enabling collaboration. Without applications that can seamlessly allow collaboration, it risks being lost. Google Workspace for Education includes Docs, Slides, Sheets, Drive, Forms, and Jamboard (interactive white board) to promote working together whether together or apart.
Productivity
With Classroom and Assignments, educators are equipped with simple tools to save time on administrative tasks allowing them to focus more on teaching. It easily connects students with classroom content—syllabi, lectures, notes, teacher feedback, and assignments—essential for student engagement and success.
Communication
Arguably one of the biggest challenges of the past school year has been learning to be together while apart. Easy communication tools overcome this barrier and lay foundation for a solid learning environment. Gmail, Meet, and Chat connect teachers and students together easily,
Organization
Keep and Calendar will keep your staff and student organized and focused with to-do lists, reminders, and a meeting and events scheduler.
Security
The admin tool keeps you in control—safeguarding against digital threats.
Versions of Google Workspace for Education
There are now four versions of Google Workspace for Education, including a free version.
Google Workspace for Education Fundamentals
Formerly G Suite for Education, this is the free version with a new name and features. It still includes all the apps and security tools that were available in G Suite for Education. It also includes data loss prevention, user data settings with Vault, and will hold Meet recordings up to 30 days.
Google Workspace for Education Standard
A new addition that was released in April 2021 is Google Workspace for Education Standard. In addition to Education Fundamentals, this version provides:
Enhanced security and control to make digital learning more secure
Greater visibility through various tools like advanced audit log
Device and app management
Investigation Tool
The Teaching and Learning Upgrade
Available for Fundamentals or Standard versions, this upgrade includes advanced multimedia features and tools that focus on critical thinking and academic integrity. The upgrade affects Meet, Classroom, and Assignments.
Google Workspace for Education Plus
Formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education, this version is the culmination of the other three versions and is the most comprehensive in teaching and learning tools, security, and analytics. It is also the most expensive version. Features include:
Increased storage capacity
Meet live streaming for up to 100,000 in-domain viewers
Integrated approvals for Gmail, Drive, Docs, etc.
Classroom sync with SIS vendors (upcoming late 2021)
Qualifications for Google Workspace for Education
Globally, K-12 schools and higher-education learning institutions are eligible for Google Workspace for Education if they meet certain criteria. Qualifying homeschool co-ops in the U.S. are also eligible.
K-12 and higher-education institutions must be government recognized and formally accredited awarding nationally or internationally approved certifications at the primary, secondary, or tertiary (post-secondary) level.
Why Google Workspace for Education?
Google Workspace for Education offers comprehensive tools for educators to easily manage and streamline their classrooms, sections, and students. It’s a one-stop shop for everything a teacher could need and keeps teachers and students connected whether together or apart.
It’s also ad-free, reliable, and secure. With 24/7 access and one login, it really doesn’t get any easier.
AGParts Education supports 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts in Chromebook parts supply and technology buyback. Contact us today to see how we can help your school.
The internet has united communities globally, easily allowing for the sharing of resources in nearly every industry. In education, these resources are called open educational resources. Open educational resources for K-12 can unlock new learning pathways and engage students in exciting ways.
What are Open Educational Resources?
Open educational resources (OER) are teaching and learning materials that are free to use and disseminate. They are either public domain or released under a license that allows the materials to be freely used.
Types of OERs
OERs cover a very broad range of materials and can include any of the following:
Textbooks
Lesson Plans
Lecture Notes
Syllabi
Assignments
Handouts
Tests
Images
Videos & Other Multimedia
Historical Documents
Why OERs Are Important
OERs overcome copyright and license barriers that prevent vital educational resources from being accessed and shared locally, regionally, and globally.
Fundamentally, education is about sharing. A teachers share knowledge with students. Teachers share lessons plans with each other. Until the advent of the internet, books were the main channel to share collective knowledge.
The internet has provided something that books could never do—access. The internet made it possible for people worldwide to access and share educational resources without the high cost of ordering or shipping books. The only thing that stands in the way of this access is copyright laws.
While necessary, copyright laws can prevent the shared nature of educational resources. OERs overcome this hurdle by providing materials that are public domain or under a license that allows materials to be freely used, like a creative common license.
The benefits of OERs are many. They’re access and flexibility are unparalleled. Not only do they supplement lesson plans, but they can also expose students to wider range of learning materials. OERs can also reduce the cost of education for students, in turn reducing financial burden, which is especially meaningful in low-income communities.
OER Limitations & Challenges
There are virtually no limitations with OERs. Since their free to use in the public domain or under a creative common license, they can also be adapted to lessons, curriculums, and students as needed. Educators can edit or modify OERs according to their specific needs. They can also continue to share original or modified OERs as they see fit.
In short, OERs can be:
Reused in its original, unedited format
Retained for personal archives or future reference
Revised, edited, or modified based on needs
Remixed with other similar content to create something new
Redistributed in its original or edited version
However, herein lies the challenges with open educational resources. Since technically anyone can create an OER, ensuring quality resources can be problematic. Be sure to review OERs prior to class use to ensure they are credible and accurate. You can also use this set of downloadable rubrics from Achieve to verify quality.
Where to Find Open Educational Resources for K-12
Looking for open educational resources for K-12? Check out the below resources:
Achieve: while not solely an OER library, OERs are available
AGParts Education supports 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts in Chromebook parts supply and technology buyback. Contact us today to see how we can help your school.
The Chromebook has been making waves since it was first introduced in 2011. What started as the leanest of laptops has transformed into high-performing machines attracting more users with flashy and premium models. Here’s a look at the latest models introduced from late 2020 to Spring 2021.
Acer Chromebook Spin 514
Photo Credit: Acer
Released: February 2021 Price Range: Less than $500 Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 2.6 GHz Battery: 10 hours Memory: 4GB Storage: 64GB Screen: 14” Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Convertible: Yes Weight: 3.42 lbs
The most powerful Chromebook that Acer has released, the Acer Chromebook Spin 514 (CP514-1H-R4HQ) is the first Acer Chromebook to feature AMD hardware. While it easily rivals a Windows 10 laptop in hardware, its price tag is still more affordable than Windows 10 laptop with similar specs. It’s heavier than most Chromebooks and feels more like a traditional laptop. Fully convertible, this Chromebook is great for business-minded power users.
There are two additional models in this series that have been announced but have not been released yet.
Asus Chromebook CX9
Photo Credit: Asus
Announced: January 2021 (not released) Price Range: Not available Processor: Intel Core i3 to i7 Battery: 10 hours Memory: 8GB-16GB Storage: 256GB-512GB SSD Screen: 14” Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Convertible: No Weight: 2.31 to 2.98 lbs
The Asus Chromebook CX9 is designed to perform in the harshest conditions. Meeting MIL-STD 810H US military standards, its rugged design doesn’t mean bulk weighing in at less than 3 pounds. With multiple ports for peripherals galore, the base model will still outperform most Chromebooks with an i3 processor. The premium model will exceed most users’ needs in Chromebook, with a blazing fast i7.
The first Chromebook with the latest generation of Intel Core processors, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 performance matches its sleek aesthetic. With a large display, this convertible Chromebook is on the heavier side at 4+ lbs. This Chromebook also features a backlit keyboard with full numeric keypad and multiple ports for peripherals.
With bold orange accents, the Asus Chromebook Flip CM5 feels like a gaming laptop. Don’t be fooled by its sleek design—not one bit of performance is sacrificed for aesthetic. Weighing in at 4+ pounds, this convertible Chromebook is on the heavier side, but boasts a large display, full numeric keypad, and plenty of ports.
Updated for 2021 is the eleventh generation HP Chromebook x360 14c. With a business focus and a bit of flair, this Chromebook is equipped with a fingerprint reader for easy and secure access. Convertible to four modes, this model featured updated hinge construction. This Chromebook also features the HP fast-charging battery technology. Boasting 13.5 hours of battery life, it also charges from 0 to 50% in 45 minutes.
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is the world’s first QLED Chromebook. With a durable aluminum body and a battery that lasts all day, it’s perfect for users on the go. Designed to capture the best of work and play, this Chromebook easily converts to a tablet. Featuring a backlit keyboard and large keycaps, you’ll be able to type with precision even in low lighting.
AGParts Education supports 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts in Chromebook parts supply and technology buyback. Contact us today to see how we can help your school.
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