Most work can be completed by using Google Apps (accessible by signing into Google.) We recommend using the Chrome browser for students to have all their bookmarks and extensions. If you need to install the Chrome browser, you can go to the Chrome page and follow the instructions.
Note: For those using mobile devices or tablets, you may need to install different corresponding apps for each Google app being used (ex: Google Classroom, etc). You also will have access to your bookmarks but may not be able to use your extensions.
We recommend using the Chrome browser and having the student sign in to have access to all of the district account features. They can also access their Google apps by signing into the sign in button from any browser; they will not have access to their bookmarks or extensions if they choose to do this.
Login to Chrome:
Open the Chrome browser
In the upper right there should be a circle with either a gray "person" or a profile photo/letter. Click on it.
When you see the menu, choose the bottom option (+Add)
Sign in with the student's district Google email and password
If you have just downloaded Chrome (or no one has used it previously) choose "link data". (If someone has used the browser before - but not signed into Chrome - choose "Create a new profile").
If you click on the profile picture again, you should see your account "syncing" - if the sync is off then it will not link current bookmarks and extensions.
If you click on the profile picture/letter in the upper right (where you added the account), you can toggle between accounts to keep them separate. When using a shared browser, each account will have their own browser window. Make sure you are in the correct account before proceeding.
Extensions are ways to extend the browser experience. (These only work if you are signed into and using the Chrome Browser.)
To install an extension:
Go to the Chrome Web store
Search for the extension you have been asked to install (Note: On the left, under the search box, you will see a spot marked "for wwcsd.net"; check here for district recommended extensions.)
Click on the extension making sure it is the one you have been requested to add, and click "Add to Chrome" (Many extensions have similar named options)
Accept the permissions (not accepting will not allow it to be added)
The extension icon should appear in the upper right of the Chrome browser. You can click on the puzzle piece to see more extensions or manage your extensions.
Important: students will only be able to install district approved extensions. This is because some extensions can interfere with different applications and slow down the device response (ex: background/theme extensions). Sometimes sites will add different extensions unbeknown to the user and can cause issues. Go to "Manage extensions" to turn off or remove unwanted extensions. (District installed extensions will be grayed out and unable to be removed/turned off.)
Most tablets and mobile devices work best by downloading the corresponding app needed for work. (Apps generally are free and can be found on the device specific App store.)
Common Programs Apps:
Google Classroom (Virtual Classroom)
Gmail (Email)
Google Drive (Cloud storage access)
Google Apps (Docs, Slides, etc)
Clever (K-12 learning portal with curriculum links)
You can also use any browser to access many apps. Depending on the browser (Safari, Chrome, etc) students may have difficulty using different applications due to browser restrictions.
There may be one of the following complications:
The device may have another account signed in (usually the first account added) as the default.
If you are using an app, try clicking on the profile picture to toggle between accounts. (For example, depending on the Google app, you may see a profile picture in the upper right or listed under the menu in the upper left.) If you don't see your student's account - you may need to add it.
If you need to remove an inactive account you can do this in your device settings. (Will vary by device.)
The device does not have the capability to run the app. Different devices will have different capabilities; many times you can search for the program/app, your device name, and the word "compatibility" to see if the device has any difficulties using the app or program.
If you have difficulty completing an assignment due to a technology restriction, it is advised to communicate with your student's teacher and/or possibly see if you have access to another device.
When contacting either help source, please be prepared to give your student's name, school, teacher name and device type that the student is using (student ID, student email, and password may be helpful to know to expedite assistance.)