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Open Educational Resources for K-12

Open Educational Resources for K-12

The internet has united communities globally, easily allowing for the sharing of resources in nearly every industry. In education, these resources are called open educational resources. Open educational resources for K-12 can unlock new learning pathways and engage students in exciting ways.

 

What are Open Educational Resources?

Open educational resources (OER) are teaching and learning materials that are free to use and disseminate. They are either public domain or released under a license that allows the materials to be freely used.

 

Types of OERs

OERs cover a very broad range of materials and can include any of the following:

  • Textbooks
  • Lesson Plans
  • Lecture Notes
  • Syllabi
  • Assignments
  • Handouts
  • Tests
  • Images
  • Videos & Other Multimedia
  • Historical Documents

 

Why OERs Are Important

OERs overcome copyright and license barriers that prevent vital educational resources from being accessed and shared locally, regionally, and globally.

Fundamentally, education is about sharing. A teachers share knowledge with students. Teachers share lessons plans with each other. Until the advent of the internet, books were the main channel to share collective knowledge.

The internet has provided something that books could never do—access. The internet made it possible for people worldwide to access and share educational resources without the high cost of ordering or shipping books. The only thing that stands in the way of this access is copyright laws.

While necessary, copyright laws can prevent the shared nature of educational resources. OERs overcome this hurdle by providing materials that are public domain or under a license that allows materials to be freely used, like a creative common license.

The benefits of OERs are many. They’re access and flexibility are unparalleled. Not only do they supplement lesson plans, but they can also expose students to wider range of learning materials. OERs can also reduce the cost of education for students, in turn reducing financial burden, which is especially meaningful in low-income communities.

 

OER Limitations & Challenges

There are virtually no limitations with OERs. Since their free to use in the public domain or under a creative common license, they can also be adapted to lessons, curriculums, and students as needed. Educators can edit or modify OERs according to their specific needs. They can also continue to share original or modified OERs as they see fit.

In short, OERs can be:

  • Reused in its original, unedited format
  • Retained for personal archives or future reference
  • Revised, edited, or modified based on needs
  • Remixed with other similar content to create something new
  • Redistributed in its original or edited version

However, herein lies the challenges with open educational resources. Since technically anyone can create an OER, ensuring quality resources can be problematic. Be sure to review OERs prior to class use to ensure they are credible and accurate. You can also use this set of downloadable rubrics from Achieve to verify quality.

 

Where to Find Open Educational Resources for K-12

Looking for open educational resources for K-12? Check out the below resources:

  1. OER Commons: public digital library of OERs
  2. Creative Commons: a nonprofit organization with a huge library of shared content
  3. Edutopia: while Edutopia is not solely an OER library, it does have many helpful guides and roundups
  4. World Digital Library: vast library of primary materials from countries and cultures around the world
  5. cK-12: OERs for K-12 with a STEM focus
  6. Khan Academy: free lessons from K-12 to early college in math, grammar, science, history, AP®, SAT®, and more.
  7. PBS Learning Media: curated videos, interactives, and lesson plans
  8. Achieve: while not solely an OER library, OERs are available

 

AGParts Education supports 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts in Chromebook parts supply and technology buyback. Contact us today to see how we can help your school.

 

New Chromebooks in 2021

New Chromebooks in 2021

The Chromebook has been making waves since it was first introduced in 2011. What started as the leanest of laptops has transformed into high-performing machines attracting more users with flashy and premium models. Here’s a look at the latest models introduced from late 2020 to Spring 2021.

 

Acer Chromebook Spin 514

Acer Chromebook Spin 514

Photo Credit: Acer

Released: February 2021
Price Range: Less than $500
Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 2.6 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 64GB
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 3.42 lbs

The most powerful Chromebook that Acer has released, the Acer Chromebook Spin 514 (CP514-1H-R4HQ) is the first Acer Chromebook to feature AMD hardware. While it easily rivals a Windows 10 laptop in hardware, its price tag is still more affordable than Windows 10 laptop with similar specs. It’s heavier than most Chromebooks and feels more like a traditional laptop. Fully convertible, this Chromebook is great for business-minded power users.

There are two additional models in this series that have been announced but have not been released yet.

 

Asus Chromebook CX9

Asus Chromebook CX9

Photo Credit: Asus

Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Core i3 to i7
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 8GB-16GB
Storage: 256GB-512GB SSD
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: No
Weight: 2.31 to 2.98 lbs

The Asus Chromebook CX9 is designed to perform in the harshest conditions. Meeting MIL-STD 810H US military standards, its rugged design doesn’t mean bulk weighing in at less than 3 pounds. With multiple ports for peripherals galore, the base model will still outperform most Chromebooks with an i3 processor. The premium model will exceed most users’ needs in Chromebook, with a blazing fast i7.

 

Asus Chromebook Flip CX5/C536

Asus Chromebook Flip CX5

Photo Credit: Asus

Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: $500+
Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3250C Processor 2.6 GHz or AMD Ryzen™ 5 3500C Processor 2.1 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB-16GB
Storage: 64GB eMMC, 128GB-256GB SSD
Screen: 15.6”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 4.30 lb

The first Chromebook with the latest generation of Intel Core processors, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 performance matches its sleek aesthetic. With a large display, this convertible Chromebook is on the heavier side at 4+ lbs. This Chromebook also features a backlit keyboard with full numeric keypad and multiple ports for peripherals.

 

Asus Chromebook Flip CM5

Asus Chromebook Flip CM5

Photo Credit: Asus

Announced: Early 2021 (not released)
Price Range: $500+
Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3250C Processor 2.6 GHz or AMD Ryzen™ 5 3500C Processor 2.1 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB-16GB
Storage: 64GB eMMC, 128GB-256GB SSD
Screen: 15.6”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 4.30 lb

With bold orange accents, the Asus Chromebook Flip CM5 feels like a gaming laptop. Don’t be fooled by its sleek design—not one bit of performance is sacrificed for aesthetic. Weighing in at 4+ pounds, this convertible Chromebook is on the heavier side, but boasts a large display, full numeric keypad, and plenty of ports.

 

Updated: HP Chromebook x360 14c

HP Chromebook x360 14c

Photo Credit: HP

Released: March 2021
Price Range: $600+
Processor: Intel Core i3
Battery: 13.5 hours
Memory: 8GB
Storage: 64GB
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 3.64 lb

Updated for 2021 is the eleventh generation HP Chromebook x360 14c. With a business focus and a bit of flair, this Chromebook is equipped with a fingerprint reader for easy and secure access. Convertible to four modes, this model featured updated hinge construction. This Chromebook also features the HP fast-charging battery technology. Boasting 13.5 hours of battery life, it also charges from 0 to 50% in 45 minutes.

 

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2

Photo Credit: Samsung

Released: March 2021
Price Range: $500+
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor 5205U or Intel Core i3
Battery: 13 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 64GB-128GB
Screen: 13.3”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 2.71 lb

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is the world’s first QLED Chromebook. With a durable aluminum body and a battery that lasts all day, it’s perfect for users on the go. Designed to capture the best of work and play, this Chromebook easily converts to a tablet. Featuring a backlit keyboard and large keycaps, you’ll be able to type with precision even in low lighting.

 

AGParts Education supports 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts in Chromebook parts supply and technology buyback. Contact us today to see how we can help your school.

 

Chromebook Spec Comparison Chart: Education Edition (2021 Update)

Chromebook Spec Comparison Chart: Education Edition (2021 Update)

Chromebooks are a popular choice for one-to-one computing programs, but how do you decide which Chromebook is right for your school? Our Chromebook Spec Comparison chart can help you compare popular and new Chromebooks for education.

 

What is a Chromebook?

First introduced in June 2011, a Chromebook is a type of laptop that uses Chrome OS to run. Chromebooks are internet-heavy devices, and most activities occur online. This includes word processing, creating spreadsheets and slideshows, notetaking, etc. These docs are automatically saved to cloud storage via Google Drive. Chromebooks have limited internal storage and rely on cloud-based storage for most applications and data.

Google provides regular updates and security patches to Chromebooks until their Auto Update Expiration. With built-in virus protection, regular security updates, and cloud-based work, Chromebooks are extremely secure devices and less prone to viruses.

 

Why are Chromebooks so popular in schools?

Durable, affordable, secure, fast, easy to deploy—the list of pros goes on. According to 2018 data, 60% of K-12 devices purchased in the US were Chromebooks. Worldwide, Chromebooks came in first place for K-12 devices with 31% of educators reporting their use. In 2019, Google reported 40 million Chromebooks in use in education.

Bear in mind that this data is prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Chromebook’s popularity has exploded as more schools had to adjust to remote learning in 2020-2021 school years. There’s no sign that this Chromebook sales will be slowing anytime soon.

Remember that just like any device, there are pros and cons of a Chromebook. Be sure to do your research on different K-12 devices to ensure your students end up with the device that is best for them.

Chromebook Spec Comparison Chart

Name Release Screen Resolution CPU Model CPU Speed Memory Storage Battery Weight (lbs) 2-in-1 Touch
Acer Chromebook 314 2021 14 1366 x 768
1920 x 1080
Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 12 3.75 No No
Acer Chromebook 512 2021 12 1366 x 912 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 12 3.09 No No
Acer Chromebook Spin 13 2021* 13.3 1920 x 1080 Qualcomm Kryo 468 2.1 4-8GB 64GB 13.5 2.65 Yes Yes
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 2021 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 10 2.78 Yes Yes
HP Chromebook 11MK G9 EE 2021 11.6 1366 x 768 MediaTek MT8183 2.0 4-8GB 32-64GB eMMC 12 2.95 No Available
HP Chromebook 11 G9 EE 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4500 or N5100 1.1 4-8GB 32-64GB eMMC 12 2.95 No Available
HP Chromebook x360 11MK G3 EE 2021 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB eMMC 12 3.19 Yes Yes
HP Chromebook x360 11 G4 EE 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4500 or N5100 1.1 4GB 32-64GB eMMC 12 3.19 Yes Available
HP Chromebook 14 G7 2021* 14 1366 x 768
1920 x 1080
Intel Celeron N4500 or N5100 1.1 4-8GB 32-64GB eMMC 12 3.4 No Available
Lenovo 100E Gen 3 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 AMD 3015Ce 1.2 4GB 32GB eMMC 10 2.76 No No
Lenovo 300E Gen 3 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 AMD 3015Ce 1.2 4GB 32GB eMMC 10 2.9 Yes Yes
Lenovo 500E Gen 3 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N5100
Intel Pentium Silver N6000
8GB 64GB eMMC 10 2.9 Yes Yes
Lenovo 14e Gen 2 2021* 14 1366 x 768
1920 x 1080
AMD 3015Ce 1.2 4-8GB 32-64GB eMMC 10 3.2 No Available
Acer Chromebook 311 2020 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 10 2.43 No Available
Acer Chromebook Spin 311 2020 11.6 1366 x 768 MediaTek MT8183 2.0 4GB 32-64GB 15 2.65 Yes Yes
HP Chromebook 11 G8 EE 2020 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 8GB 32GB eMMC 13.5 2.91 No No
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 2020 10.1 1920 x 1200 MediaTek Helio P60T 2.0 4GB 64GB 10 1 Yes Yes
Acer Chromebook 15 2019 15.6 1920 x 1080 Intel Pentium N4200 1.1 4GB 32GB 12 4.3 No No
Dell Chromebook 3100 2019 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 16-32GB eMMC 14 2.85 Available Available
HP 14A G5 2019 14 1366 x 768
1920 x 1080
AMD A4-9120C APU
AMD A6-9220C APU
1.6
1.8
4GB 16-64GB eMMC 9 3.46 No Available
HP Chromebook x360 12b 2019 12 1366 x 912 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 13 2.98 Yes Yes
HP Chromebook 11 G7 EE 2019 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4000
Intel Celeron 4100
1.1 4-8GB 16-64GB eMMC 13 2.93 No Available
Lenovo Chromebook C340 2019 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4000 1.1 4GB 64GB 10 2.65 Yes Yes
Samsung Chromebook 4+ (15-inch) 2019 15.6 1920 x 1080 Intel Celeron N4000 1.1 4GB 32GB+ 10 3.75 No No

 

*At date of publication, these models have been announced, but have not been released.

AGParts Education supports 6,000+ US school districts with their 1:1 Chromebook initiatives. From Chromebook parts to technology buyback, contact us to see how we can help your district. 

New Chromebooks for Education in 2021

New Chromebooks for Education in 2021

The Chromebook has become the most popular device used for 1:1 computing programs worldwide. Both Acer, HP, and Lenovo announced exciting new Chromebook models for both students and teachers in early 2021.

Check out these new Chromebook models currently available or coming soon to retailers:

 

For Students

 

Acer Chromebook Spin 512

Acer Chromebook Spin 512

Photo Credit: Acer

Released: January 2021
Price Range: $450-550
Processor: Intel Celeron N4120 1.1 GHz or Intel Pentium Silver N5030 1.1 GHz
Battery: 11 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 12.0”
Resolution: 1366 x 912
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 3.42 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port, (2) USB-A 2.0 port

The Acer Chromebook Spin 512 is the first Acer Chromebook to come equipped with standard antimicrobial treatment on the glass display, keyboard, and touchpad. With an increased display size and 3:2 aspect ratio for more vertical viewing, it’s the perfect Chromebook to view documents, read, and power through assignments. Durable for students, its keyboard is protected against small spills and is MIL-STD 810H tested.

 

Updated: Acer Chromebook Spin 511 (R752T-C2YP)

Acer Chromebook Spin 511

Photo Credit: Acer

Released: April 2021
Price Range: $400
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 2.78 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port
New Model: R752T-C2YP

Recently updated and bearing a lower price tag than the previous 511 models, the Acer Chromebook Spin 511 is a versatile 2-in-1 that packs a powerful punch. Impact and pressure resistant with a shock absorbent rubber bumper, it will withstand the most aggressive handling from young hands. With four convertible modes—clamshell, tablet, display, and tent—students can work in a variety of ways.

 

Updated: Acer Chromebook 311

Acer Chromebook 311Photo Credit: Acer

Released: November 2020
Price Range: $150-300
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 2.43 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port, (2) USB-A 2.0 port
New Models: CB311-9H-C7C8, CB311-9H-C4XC, CB311-9HT-C7SE

The Acer Chromebook 311 features three new models in its series, with the CB311-9H-C4XC model available at $169*. Smaller than a sheet of A4 paper, this lightweight laptop is perfect for hybrid model instruction and on-the-go students. Easily one of the most affordable Chromebooks on the market, it offers many features while staying in budget.

 

HP Chromebook 11MK G9 EE & HP Chromebook 11 G9 EE

HP Chromebook 11MK G9 EE

Photo Credit: HP

HP Chromebook 11MK G9 EE

Released: January 2021
Price Range: $200-300
Processor: MediaTek MT8183 2.0 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 2.95 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port, (1) USB-A 2.0 port, (1) Headphone/microphone combo jack

HP Chromebook 11 G9 EE

Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor N4500 or N5100 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 2.95 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack

The HP Chromebook 11MK G9 EE and the HP Chromebook 11 G9 EE are near identical save the processors and additional USB-A port in the second model. Built for the wear and tear of student life, these Chromebooks meet MIL-STD 810H standards and can withstand drops from four feet. With long-lasting batteries that can charge to 90% within 90 minutes, your students’ productivity will seldom be interrupted.

 

HP Chromebook x360 11MK G3 EE

HP Chromebook x360 11MK G3 EE

Photo Credit: HP

Released: January 2021
Price Range: $300-400
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 3.19 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack

Your students will learn from every angle with the convertible HP Chromebook x360 11MK G3 EE. Designed to withstand the demands of student life, this Chromebook can survive a fall and is spill resistant. The superior performance from the Intel processor and long battery life is sure boost your students’ productivity.

 

HP Chromebook x360 11 G4 EE

HP Chromebook x360 11 G4

Photo Credit: HP

Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor N4500 or N5100 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Available
Weight: 3.19 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack

A ruggedized Chromebook with an ultrawide HD camera, the HP Chromebook x360 11 G4 EE will keep up with even the most active students. Featuring a spill-resistant keyboard, this Chromebook also features a garaged stylus that can be stored and charged within the device. Available in either black or teal, it comes equipped with a battery that lasts all day and charges up to 90% in 90 minutes when powered off.

 

For Teachers & Higher Education

Acer Chromebook Spin 513

Acer Chromebook Spin 513

Photo Credit: Acer

Announced: February 2021 (not released)
Price Range: $500-550
Processor: Qualcomm Kryo 468 Octa-Core 2.1 GHz
Battery: 13.5 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 64GB
Screen: 13.3”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 2.65 lb

There’s a lot for teachers to like about the Acer Chromebook Spin 513. Stylish in design, it features a narrow bezel and stunning display. With a battery to power through even the longest days, teachers can easily switch between clamshell and tablet modes to easily meet their needs.

 

Updated: Acer Chromebook 314

Acer Chromebook 314

Photo Credit: Acer

Announced: February 2021
Price Range: $200-450
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1366 x 768, 1920 x 1080
Convertible: No
Touch: Not available in the updated models
Weight: 3.75 lb
Ports: 2) USB-C port, (2) USB-A 2.0 port
New Models: CB314-1H-C02A, CB314-1H-C7W8

The updated Acer Chromebook 314 is budget friendly laptop with no frills. With a larger 14” display, it is focused on productivity and performance. A bit heavier than most Chromebooks, your teachers can power through their days on a single charge. With model CB314-1H-C7W8 available for $199*, it’s going to be tough to find another comparable Chromebook at this price point.

 

Acer Chromebook 512

Acer Chromebook 512

Photo Credit: Acer

Announced: February 2021
Price Range: $200-300
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB
Screen: 12”
Resolution: 1366 x 912
Convertible: No
Touch: No
Weight: 3.09 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port, (2) USB-A 2.0 port

Meeting MIL-STD 810G requirements, the Acer Chromebook 512 is designed to withstand the rigors of the harshest school environments. Like its Spin counterpart, this Chromebook features a 3:2 aspect ratio for more vertical viewing making it ideal for viewing documents and reading. Its keyboard is protected against small spills with a unique drainage design. At a price that can’t be beat, it’s a great fit for students and teachers alike.

HP Chromebook 14 G7

HP Chromebook 14 G7

Photo Credit: HP

Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor N4500 or N5100 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 14.0”
Resolution: 1366 x 768, 1920 x 1080
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 3.4 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack

Designed for teachers, the HP Chromebook 14 G7 features a larger screen and ultra-wide HD webcam to adapt to any learning environment. Built to survive drops, is also made to be cleaned, withstanding up to 1,000 disinfection cycles. While it is not a fully convertible Chromebook, it does feature a 180-degree hinge.

Added May 2021

Updated: Lenovo 100e Chromebook Gen 3

lenovo 100e chromebook gen 3

Photo Credit: Lenovo

Announced: March 2021 (coming soon)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: AMD 3015Ce 1.2 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: No
Touch: No
Weight: 2.76 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) HDMI port, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack

The Lenovo 100e Gen 3 is everything your students need without any frills. Reinforced ports and hinges combined with rubber bumpers ensure this device can handle drops from more than two feet. Equipped with plenty of ports for peripherals, your students won’t miss a beat with this Chromebook.

 

Updated: Lenovo 300e Chromebook Gen 3 2-in-1

lenovo 300e chromebook gen 3 2-in-1

Photo Credit: Lenovo

Announced: March 2021 (temporarily unavailable)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: AMD 3015Ce 1.2 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 2.9 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) HDMI port, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack

Rugged and water resistant, the Lenovo 300e Gen 3 2-in-1 features plenty of ports and all-day battery life to ensure productivity is uninterrupted. With optional garaged stylus, this 2-in-1 has a 360-degree hinge that enables multiple modes. Meeting MIL-SPEC-810H requirements, you can rest easy knowing this device can withstand the demands of student life, whether at a school desk or at a kitchen table.

 

Updated: Lenovo 500e Chromebook Gen 3 2-in-1

lenovo 500e chromebook gen 3

Photo Credit: Lenovo

Announced: March 2021 (temporarily unavailable)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor N5100 or 1.2
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 8GB
Storage: 64GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 2.9 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) HDMI port, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack

Let creativity flow with the Lenovo 500e Gen 3 2-in-1. With optional garaged stylus and all-day battery life, students will be engaged and thrive while using this device. Featuring four convertible modes, this Chromebook is ideal for sharing content and collaboration. Meeting MIL-SPEC-810H requirements, it has rubber bumpers, reinforced ports and hinges, and a water-resistant keyboard that tolerates spills up to 12 oz.

 

Lenovo 14e Gen 2 Chromebook

lenovo 14e gen 2 chromebook

Photo Credit: Lenovo

Announced: March 2021 (temporarily unavailable)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: AMD 3015Ce 1.2 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: Up to 8GB
Storage: Up to 64GB eMMC
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1366 x 768, 1920 x 1080
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 3.2 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) HDMI port, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack

The Lenovo 14e Gen 2 Chromebook is a student workhorse. Meeting MIL-SPEC-810H requirements, this Chromebook can keep up with the fast-paced lifestyle of any student or teacher without crumbling. With a battery that lasts all day and a 180-hinge, you can be sure that productivity will not be interrupted.

*Pricing may vary. Pricing current as of date of publication.

 

AGParts Education is your complete partner for your 1:1 Chromebook initiative. Supporting over 6,000+ U.S. school districts, find out how we can help your district. Contact us today!

9 Elements of Digital Citizenship

9 Elements of Digital Citizenship

More than 175,000 children go online for the first time every day and 1 out of 3 internet users are children. As part of internet safety for students, understanding the 9 elements of digital citizenship has never been more important.

 

Digital Citizenship & Digital Citizens Defined

Everyone who uses the internet and technology is a digital citizen. Through the use of the internet and technology, digital citizens engage in all aspects of society from politics to ecommerce to connection via social media.

Digital citizenship is engaging responsibly with technology, the internet, and its users. Every digital citizen should endeavor to follow the 9 elements of digital citizenship which lays guidelines for appropriate use.

 

Why is Digital Citizenship Important?

Only 7% of Americans never go online, with 25% of that small percentage being 65+. Couple this with the fact that 97% of Americans own a cell phone (of those, 85% own a smartphone) and practicing the 9 elements of digital citizenship has never been more important. It’s crucial we all do our part to make the internet the safest and most equitable place possible.

In 2019, 41% of American students had their own device through their school’s 1:1 computing program.  While that may seem like a modest percentage, that doesn’t address the schools where one device is available to five or fewer students. Nor does it address the increased demand for 1:1 programs or student devices following 2020.

Children are using technology at home, too. Although most believe that children should have their first smartphone later, the average age for a child to have their first smartphone is 10 years old. By age 8, 42% of US children have their own tablet. As technology and internet use continues to permeate our lives and younger generations, students must learn about digital citizenship at early age to ensure their responsible use of the internet and technology.

 

9 Elements of Digital Citizenship

There are 9 elements of digital citizenship that every digital citizen should be familiar with. They are:

1. Digital Access is the equitable distribution of technology and not only understanding who has access to technology, but the limitations and consequences to those who have limited access to technology.

2. Digital Commerce is the buying and selling of goods. This principle focuses on making safe and informed decisions when purchasing or downloading materials online.

3. Digital Communication is understanding the different modes and mediums of digital technology and when to appropriately use them. For example, understanding when sending an email is appropriate versus sending a text message.

4. Digital Etiquette is understanding appropriate code of conduct and procedures when using mobile devices. It extends beyond recognizing bad behavior in that it actively encourages appropriate and responsible behavior online.

5. Digital Literary or Fluency is the process of understanding technology, how to use it in its many forms, and how to adapt when new technologies are introduced. It also extends to internet usage and how to effectively search and evaluate information online.

6. Digital Health & Welfare is maintaining sound technological practices to promote physical and psychological wellness. Practicing eye safety and ergonomics, and balancing screen time and technology usage are all related to this important principle.

7. Digital Law is understanding and complying with online rules and policies, and how to use technology ethically. Digital law is broad and covers topics from spam to cyberbullying.

8. Digital Rights & Responsibility are the freedoms that extend to everyone online. Examples of this include right to privacy and free speech.

9. Digital Security & Privacy are electronic precautions to bolster online safety. Secure passwords, not sharing passwords, backing up data, and antivirus protection are all examples of this principle.

 

Digital Citizenship Resources

As we’ve established, introducing digital citizenship early is key. Equally important is teaching digital citizenship all year, every year. As students age, their online activities will change. What they learn in second grade is not what they will learn in ninth grade, which is why it’s important to teach this subject yearly.

There are many tools available to teach digital citizenship. Check out these helpful resources:

  • Common Sense Media offers free courses for all school-aged children
  • ITSE U offers a comprehensive digital citizenship course to equip teachers, coaches, and other leaders
  • Edutopia shares a complete guide of helpful blogs and videos about digital citizenship
  • Cyberwise offers free cyber civics resources for families

 

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