Chromebooks for Teachers
East Haven Chromebooks for Certified Staff
What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a personal computer running Google’s Chrome OS as its operating system. The devices are designed to be used while connected to the Internet and support applications that reside on the Web, rather than traditional applications that reside on the machine itself. All the data is stored in the "cloud" accessed by an internet connection. Chromebooks allow for easy streamlined access to all of your favorite Google Applications including but not limited to Google Drive and Gmail.
What devices are we getting?
All certified staff will be receiving an HP Chromebook 14. The HP Chromebook 14 is easier to use than traditional computers you may be used to -- there’s no clutter, no waiting, and no nagging. It starts up in 7 seconds, has over 9 hours of battery, and automatically stays up-to-date without interrupting you. Virus protection is built in, guarding you against viruses, malware, and other problems.
The following link will direct you to more information about the HP Chromebook 14: Meet Your Chromebook
Why Chromebooks?
East Haven Public Schools has officially adopted Google Apps for Education as its primary tool for productivity for both students and staff. The Google ecosystem provides a robust, low cost (actually free), cloud-based platform that is a good fit for achieving Common Core and other curriculum goals. Chromebooks are an affordable Internet appliance that will get both teachers and students onto the Internet and to utilize the Google Apps suite along with hundreds of educational applications.
Can I use the Chromebook if I do not have WiFi access?
There are ways to use the Chromebook, even if you do not have WiFi (internet) access.
Chrome Apps:
Chrome Apps are free-standing "programs" that you can install from the Chrome Web Store. Many of these Apps operate offline.
Google Drive:
Google Drive is the folder organization of Google Docs. While Google Docs are online, you can activate Drive Offline, download Docs to you Chromebooks file storage, and work on them offline. This includes editing existing Docs as well as creating new Docs. Then, when you have WiFi access and are back online, Google Drive syncs your files, updating changes and additions you made offline.
The following link will direct you to more information about Google Drive Offline: Drive Offline
