What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a lightweight device that runs the Google Chrome operating system (OS.) These devices are designed to be used primarily while connected to the Internet, with most applications and documents living in each student’s Google Drive on the cloud. The Chromebooks will be accessed with a St. Joseph Academy Google Suite for Education account that is assigned to each student.
Why were Chromebooks chosen?
Chromebooks power up very quickly and have a long battery life. Chromebooks are easy to manage and require very little maintenance when compared to other computers or mobile devices. The Chromebook updates each time it is connected to the Internet.
What’s this Google Suite for Education thing?
Google Suite for Education is a collection of online tools including email, documents, spreadsheets, Google Classroom, and calendars that provide all students and teachers the ability to communicate and collaborate from any place at any time.
Why 1:1?
St. Joseph Academy is striving to provide students access to technology tools in order to improve learning. Many students already use devices at school and a review of instructional practices identified the need to put a device in the hands of all students starting with the freshman class of 2018. Placing a Chromebook in the hands of our students enables enhanced communication and collaboration in the classroom. Both are necessary skills to prepare students for the workforce.
Protective Cases
It is highly recommended that all students have a case for their Chromebook.
Chromebook FAQs
We realize parents may have many questions regarding the 1:1 Chromebook Program. We have published a FAQ webpage. Instructions below.
Go to sjaweb.org. Click Quick Links at the top. Click Information Technology. Click Chromebooks on the top right
When will the Chromebook be used?
Students can use the Chromebooks in their daily classroom activities. The classroom teacher will determine the appropriate use of the device during the instructional day. Students are also encouraged to use the Chromebook at home for school assignments and homework.
What are the benefits to Students?
• Access to a collaborative learning environment
• Receive instant feedback from teachers
• Access work anywhere on any device with an Internet Connection through Google Drive
• Access to endless resources
• Open communication between teachers and students
Can the Chromebooks be used without an Internet Connection?
An Internet connection is required for most activities. However, the Chromebook can be used offline without an Internet connection if assignments are downloaded in advance and the Chromebook is set to work offline. Once an Internet connection is restored, all student work is saved to their Google Drive. Students will be provided instructions on how to do this.
Are the Chromebooks safe for student use?
The Chromebooks are filtered any time they are used on site. Additionally, the Chrome internet browser is set to safe search when students use their school email account to login. We encourage parents to take an active role and work with their child to learn more about how they are using the devices
Starting in the 2014 - 2015 academic year, St. Joseph Academy will require students to bring Chromebooks to class every day. Chromebooks are portable web devices similar to a notebook computer. With an average six hours of battery life and no required maintenance, Chromebooks make the perfect companion for students in the information age.
A comparison chart of Chromebook models from August 2018 is available at this link:
http://zipso.net/chromebook-specs-comparison-table/
Parents may find a list of models at this link: http://goo.gl/Lwypc4
Things to consider when purchasing a Chromebook: