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Chromebooks come in a variety of different styles, specs, and sizes. One of the more recent models of portable computer, these lightweight machines have been given to all or nearly all of our students across the Kern High School District. We've chosen these devices because, unlike laptop computers, they are inexpensive, lightweight, and have long lasting batteries (when properly charged).
The models available at the Kern High School District vary but below we have a few listed. You can also learn useful information, like keyboard shortcuts and features, about Chromebooks below!
This Chromebook is the workhorse across the district. Most students have this or the 2-in-1 model.
The "2-in-1" here is that this Chromebook also functions as a tablet - complete with a touchscreen.
These are our newer Chromebooks on our school sites. They are recognizable by their sharper corners and edges.
This Chromebook was distributed to teachers in 2020-21 to assist in Distance Learning. It has a larger screen at 14".
These shortcuts are often very obvious on a Windows computer, but less clear on a Chromebook's slightly different keyboard.
Take a screenshot: Press Ctrl + Show Windows
Take a partial screenshot: Press Shift + Ctrl + Show windows , then click and drag.
To access more screenshot features: Press Shift + Ctrl + Show windows , then select a screenshot feature from the toolbar.
Turn Caps Lock on or off: Press Search + Alt. Or press Launcher + Alt.
Lock your screen: Press Search + L. Or press Launcher + L.
Sign out of your Google Account: Press Shift + Ctrl + q (twice).
See all keyboard shortcuts: Press Ctrl + Alt + / (forward slash).
Right Clicking: Right clicking on a touchpad is weird, especially since these ones don't have a "right side" segment like laptops. Instead, simply tap with two fingers at the same time. Something we call a "snake bite!"
Typing in Unicode: Knowing what the Unicode characters are isn't something you'll be memorizing (here's a cheat sheet), but once you know the Unicode number, typing them is easy. Just press Ctrl + U + the number, and they'll be inserted in place.
Opening a New Tab: Hover over a link on any website and tap the touchpad with three fingers - voila! You've opened the link in a new tab, all without having to click with two-fingers and search a menu.
Change Your Shelf Position: What Windows users would call the "Start Bar," ChromeOS calls the "Shelf" change the shelf's orientation by clicking it with two fingers. You can also change the theme and color of your background here!
Use the Night Light Mode: On your quick settings menu (click the clock!) you have a "Night Light Mode" this dims the screen, shifts the hues to warmer colors, and overall makes your screen a little easier on the eyes. This can help with eye fatigue that can get you all bleary eyed after grading or working on assignments for hours on end.