To Google or Not to Google...

That is the question.

One of my awesome colleagues gave me a Google Chromebook to experiment with a couple of weeks ago.  Chromebooks are an entirely interesting departure from the traditional laptop, one that I thought I should share...or at least share in context to some current trends in technology in education.

(cue 2001: A Space Odyssey theme song)

Devices at School...So, what do we buy (or use)?

It seems to be the hot button issue in our current instructional technology-integrate now educational environment that students need access to computers every day in meaningful and relevant ways.  In other words, the days of walking to the computer lab are grudgingly coming to an end.  Wireless and remote access is here to stay (yeah!), but how do we accommodate for having devices within our classrooms and what devices are we really talking about?

To be honest, I don't have a solid opinion yet, but I can give a brief comparison of pros and cons to get us started on making educated decisions.

Just a quick comparison chart I made.



Laptops

PROS

Since desktops are becoming obsolete for normal users (yes, they are in fact), laptops and netbooks are becoming the computer of choice.  Laptops take the "heavy computing" load...specialized programs, photoediting/moviemaking, Itunes, gaming... They have the CD/DVD drive, multiple USB ports for accessories and the ability to connect directly to a projector or flat-screen TV and are mobile.  They also have excellent screen size, integrated camera and microphone and a full-sized keyboard.

CONS

Relatively heavy compared to other devices, laptops still have the same virus and security issues as desktops, tend to slow way down over time due to a number of factors and need updates and "cleaning" to remain functional and efficient.  My major complaint with laptops is that after 2-3 years, they are relatively out of date.  You also get what you pay for...cheaper laptops are, well, cheaper.  Great laptops like Macbooks are over $1000.




Netbooks

PROS

The mini-me of the laptop world.  Fully functional computing in a highly mobile package!  Small, lightweight, great storage and relatively inexpensive compared to other options.  You can get the same or similar programs on netbooks that you can on laptops, provided you have an external DVD/CD or can download them.

CONS

No DVD/CD drive presents challenges when installing software and the small screen size and keyboard makes typing and viewing "interesting" for us older users.  Netbooks have similar security and virus concerns that laptops do.



Tablets

PROS

Tablets (iPads, Galaxy Tab, Kindle Fire...) are the consummate media consumption device, lots of apps to do all sorts of things, touch screen, easy for all ages to manipulate and use effectively.  Tablets are truly a multiple use device limited only to your own imagination...ebook reading, movie viewing, emailing, videochating, web surfing, photoediting/moviemaking, gaming, etc...If you can find an app for it, there really is not limit.  Tablets also come with the ability to connect to cellular service (3G) so access anywhere, anytime is possible.

CONS

If you can find an app for it...

Tablets are not really meant for heavy computing, regardless of what people might tell you.  For example, typing an lengthy report, with graphics and charts embedded into it is a challenge as is creating spreadsheets and other work-related documents.  Price is also a consideration.



Chromebooks

Back to my original conversation...Chromebooks are an interesting blend of tablet and laptop.  Chromebooks, as the name implies, are Google products that run the Chrome operating system (also available for laptops).  The Chrome OS is entirely web-based relying on the beauty of Web2.0 tools and web apps for productivity and entertainment.

PROS

Super fast startup time...8 seconds...and shutdown time.  The inability to install software on a chromebook makes virus and security software irrelevant.  Viruses and malware cannot install themselves on a chromebook ensuring dynamic internet speed, as the does the lack of internal storage space.  Chromebooks also have full keyboards and a wide selection of apps from which to choose.

CONS

While there are apps for most of our daily needs (like word processing), chromebooks require you to find "work arounds" for many other tasks...like video/photoediting.  The other real downfall of the chromebook is that it requires Wi-Fi connection to work.

FOR A DEMO of a chromebook, let me know.


My Uses

• For work, I use a Chromebook almost exclusively.
• For enjoyment, to check my email, read a book, etc... I use my iPad.
• For heavy computing, I use a netbook.
• If desperate, I use a laptop.

Please share your uses!